Partner content: What sets Congolese coffee apart

The first organic blend in Nespresso’s Reviving Origins range comes from the Democratic of Congo (DRC). So why the DRC?

For one thing, where your coffee comes from contributes to its flavour. For example, coffee from Africa is described as “complex, with intense berry or spice undertones”, and Nespresso’s Reviving Origins KAHAWA ya CONGO (meaning “Hope of Congo”) blend, which comes from Lake Kivu’s volcanic shores, is recommended for coffee drinkers who love sweet, fruity flavours.

Nespresso’s Reviving Origins programme, which was launched in 2019, strives to restore coffee production in regions that have been affected by adversities such as conflict, economic struggles and environmental disasters. Since then, they have launched single-origin coffee from Eastern Zimbabwe, Colombia and Uganda. Now, they have turned their focus to the DRC.

Just five years ago, coffee was the second-most important export for the DRC, but now those farming communities are at risk of disappearing due to two decades of internal conflict and economic instability. Farmers often have to risk their lives to cross over into Rwanda to sell their coffee.

In addition, 58% of households in the country don’t have access to clean water, 15% of children die from preventable and treatable diseases before the age of five years, and nearly 95% of families are suffering financially because of healthcare challenges.

For all these reasons, Nespresso, together with global non-profit TechnoServe, the US Agency for International Development (USAID) and coffee trader Virunga Coffee/Olam International, are working with 2 500 farmers in South Kivu to improve coffee quality and yield, and embed sustainable farming practices, while increasing incomes. In collaboration with the Eastern Congo Initiative (ECI), Nespresso is also helping to provide access to clean water and healthcare.

Kivu coffee farmer Turanyi Kabasura says: “I see my remaining days being better than those in the past, because I am going to work, assured of receiving regular pay and a bonus each time after the coffee sale. In my whole life, no one has ever given me such a bonus. I can use that to develop other strategies, such as raising small livestock, or my wife can run a small business. I am starting to see the results of my work.”

The rain-rich volcanic soils along the Kivu lakeshores of Eastern Congo are ideal for growing specialty Arabicas. The Organic KAHAWA ya CONGO coffee is split roast, meaning that a small portion of the beans gets a darker roast to bring out the full intensity and body of the coffee. In a cup, the smooth and balanced Arabica reveals alluring sweet cereal and nutty aromas, reflecting its ideal terroir origin. With milk these aromas are transformed into a light, sweet and creamy cup full of biscuity notes, a hint of walnut, and a silky texture.

So when you enjoy a cup of the Organic KAHAWA ya CONGO coffee, you not only get to enjoy these delicious flavours and aromas – you can also start your day knowing that you’re supporting coffee farmers like Turanyi who can provide for their families.

About Nestlé Nespresso

Nestlé Nespresso SA is the pioneer and reference for highest-quality portioned coffee. The company works with more than 110 000 farmers in 15 countries through its AAA Sustainable Quality™ Program to embed sustainability practices on farms and the surrounding landscapes. Launched in 2003 in collaboration with the NGO Rainforest Alliance, the program helps to improve the yield and quality of harvests, ensuring a sustainable supply of high-quality coffee and improving livelihoods of farmers and their communities. Headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, Nespresso operates in 82 countries and has over 13’900 employees. The global retail network currently operates 809 boutiques in 532 cities. For more information, visit the Nespresso corporate website: www.nestle-nespresso.com.