The Gashonga cooperative formed in 2009 as a collective effort between 85 women coffee farmers looking to strengthen their resources together as a group. The cooperative saw a rough transitional period in its early months as the members strived to gain market access, all the while learning to manage their budding organization. Help from Sustainable Growers in the form of agricultural, management and team-building trainings, however, allowed the cooperative to gain solid footing and quickly begin improving coffee quality and increasing volumes.

Today, the Gashonga cooperative has grown to over 100 members and is Fair Trade certified. With their increased profits, Gashonga has been able to not only invest in agronomic initiatives that strengthen their coffee plants, but also in programs aimed at their members’ future and well-being, like providing assistance with education and healthcare. The cooperative has also invested in diversifying members’ incomes through cultivating livestock and produce and making their own organic fertilizer as different streams for revenue.

In 2015, Gashonga was recognized on the international stage when their coffee placed seventh at the Rwanda Cup of Excellence with a score of 86.7.

Use for Espresso, French Press, Pour Over, and Drip.