Shyira (Rwanda, Anaerobic Nat)

Shyira Washing Station produces our favourite Rwandan coffees year-on-year. It’s the highest-altitude of the stations, located in the northern Nyabihu District at 2,000 MASL, with farms reaching up to an impressive 2,400 MASL.

Its remote and small-scale setting was chosen to deliver impact for a rural population, focusing on access to specialty knowledge and fair pricing. Volcanic soils, cool weather conditions, and high altitude yields slow-maturing, high sugar content cherries, one of the reasons why Shyira has consistently produced some of the most exciting and well regarded coffees from Rwanda.

More than 700 smallholder farmers deliver their cherry to Shyira, receiving payment upfront with a second premium once the coffee is exported. Through Muraho Trading Company’s partnership with Raw Material, these coffees reach global markets and achieve higher prices, particularly with innovative processes such as this example of anaerobic natural fermentation. Importantly, income from these higher-value lots is pooled to ensure all contributing farmers benefit, making Shyira’s model both distinctive and deeply rooted in community.

The result is a stunning Red Bourbon variety, bursting with vibrant notes of wild strawberry and kiwi fruit.