Empowering Collaboration: IWCA Uganda and Rwashoscco Ltd. Unite for Women in Coffee

In a remarkable demonstration of cross-border cooperation, the International Women’s Coffee Alliance (IWCA) Uganda Chapter has partnered with Rwashoscco Ltd., a company owned 100% by coffee farmers, to produce a unique coffee blend that embodies empowerment and community spirit. This collaboration, documented in a recent field visit video, showcases the collective efforts of multiple organizations dedicated to supporting women and youth in the coffee industry.

Dubbed "Angelique's Finest Blend",this blend brings together Fairtrade certified Robusta coffee from the Zigoti Women and Youth Association, a member group of IWCA Uganda,  and Arabic Specialty coffee from IWCA Rwanda. The initiative also includes Kaffeekoop GmbH, the Uganda/German company, which markets and sells in Europe, "Angelique’s Finest," a brand named after Angelique Karekezi, a board member of IWCA Rwanda and  team leader of Rwashoscco.

The collaboration spans four organizations: Zicofe Ltd., IWCA Uganda, Kaffeekoop GmbH, and Rwashoscco Ltd., making it a powerful example of international teamwork. The project not only promotes the high-quality coffee produced by women in Uganda and Rwanda but also highlights the impact of sustainable practices and Fairtrade certification in enhancing the lives and incomes of coffee producers and their communities.

During the field visit to Uganda, participants, including Angelique  and Allan Mubiru and Xaver Kitzinger (founders of Kaffeekoop GmbH), witnessed firsthand the dedication and hard work of the women at Zigoti. This visit provided an opportunity to exchange knowledge, strengthen relationships, and further commit to the shared goal of elevating women within the global coffee value chain.

In July, the first consignment of 10 tons of the blend was shipped, marking a significant milestone in this collaborative journey. This venture not only creates a pathway for economic empowerment but also sets a precedent for future collaborations across borders.

As we continue to support and expand such initiatives, the IWCA remains dedicated to empowering women in coffee, ensuring they receive the recognition and resources they deserve. Through the "Angelique's Finest Blend", we celebrate the strength, resilience, and success of women in coffee, from Uganda to Rwanda and beyond.

Watch our journey, celebrate our achievements, and support our mission by following the IWCA's ongoing projects and collaborations across the globe.