Rwanda’s coffee sector achieved a historic milestone in 2025, with export revenues hitting nearly $150 million, the highest on record, driven by a combination of rising global prices, higher production, good quality, and strategic market expansion, according to the National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB).
Export volumes rose 39 per cent from 17,142 tonnes in 2024 to 23,860 tonnes in 2025, while revenues surged 65 per cent year-on-year. NAEB Chief Executive Claude Bizimana said the performance reflects both a strong production base and sustained investment in market access.
“Rwanda is on a trajectory to achieve 32,000 tonnes of coffee exports and $192 million in revenues by 2029 under the National Strategy for Transformation,” he said.
Behind the record figures are thousands of Rwandan farmers benefiting directly from higher prices and better yields. Coffee trees distributed by NAEB over the past five years reached peak productivity in 2025, while provision of fertilisers, training in good agricultural practices, and favourable weather conditions further boosted output.
Coffee has changed my life this year. Previously, I primarily grew maize and beans, but the income was never sufficient to cover school fees or household needs. The coffee trees I received from NAEB over the past five years finally began producing this season, and with training in fertilisers and good farming practices, my harvest was the best I’ve ever had. The higher prices on the market mean I can provide for my family and even plan for the future,’ said Jean Bosco Uwimana, a farmer from Nyamasheke District in western Rwanda.
Uwimana is among the thousands of Rwandan farmers who have benefited from national efforts to increase coffee production. Through support from NAEB, farmers received new coffee seedlings, fertilisers, and training, while favourable weather conditions in 2025 further enhanced yields. The result has been record-breaking export revenues for Rwanda, while providing local farmers with a tangible income boost and improved livelihoods.
Farmers earned an average of Rwf900 per kilogramme of coffee cherries, well above NAEB’s minimum price of Rwf600 per kilogramme.
“Higher prices motivate farmers to invest more in their farms and improve yields, creating a sustainable cycle of production and income,” said Oreste Baragahorana, Chairperson of the Coffee Exporters and Processors Association of Rwanda (CEPAR).
The growth in Rwanda’s coffee sector has also attracted significant interest from regional and international investors. Strategic promotion in emerging markets such as the Middle East, alongside niche specialty markets in Europe and North America, has opened doors for investors in export logistics, processing, and value addition. Competitions such as Best of Rwanda Coffeeshowcase premium Rwandan coffee beans, attracting new buyers and increasing international visibility.
NAEB’s initiatives demonstrate that Rwanda is not just a coffee-growing country but also a business-friendly investment destination. Investors can tap into production, processing, and export-oriented ventures while leveraging government support for permits, incentives, and partnership opportunities.
The coffee sector’s success is contributing to national economic stability and rural development. Beyond boosting foreign exchange earnings, the industry supports livelihoods across thousands of rural households, empowers women farmers, and promotes long-term engagement in sustainable agriculture.
“Coffee is a lifeline for Rwanda’s rural economy. A substantial portion of export revenues flows directly to farmers, helping households invest in education, health, and better living standards,” Baragahorana noted.
