On 20–21 February 2025, nine coffee companies from across Rwanda took part in a hands-on learning visit to the coffee washing station of Gitesi Coffee Company in Karongi District. The visit was organized by the International Trade Centre (ITC) under the EU-EAC MARKUP II programme, as part of the Resource Efficiency and Circular Production (RECP) coaching component.

The study visit offered participants an up-close look at sustainable practices in wastewater management and coffee waste valorization, demonstrating how circular solutions can boost environmental performance and operational efficiency in the coffee sector.

Turning coffee waste into value

Coffee processing in Rwanda produces large quantities of wastewater and coffee pulp, by-products that, if unmanaged, can pollute the environment and degrade soil quality. Coffee pulp alone accounts for 41% of the coffee cherry and is often discarded or poorly composted. Likewise, wastewater from washing stations is rarely treated, threatening nearby water sources.

Gitesi Coffee Company has taken a different path. Through the adoption of circular measures, the station has developed a closed-loop system that transforms waste into valuable resources. Its advanced wastewater treatment system ensures that water is free of contaminants before being safely discharged into the environment. Its innovative vermicomposting process turns coffee pulp into high-quality organic fertilizer, improving soil health for coffee crops and beyond.

From demonstration to replication

For many participants, this was their first opportunity to witness such practices in action. “Seeing the quality of compost that Gitesi produces, I realize my own composting efforts have been ineffective due to limited knowledge,” said Benic Bisangabagabo, Manager at Hobe Coffee.

Wellars Karangwa, General Manager at Muhondo Coffee Company, shared similar reflections: “It was an invaluable learning experience. On behalf of our company, I plan to expand the vermicomposting system not only at the washing station but also at three farm sites. Additionally, we will enhance our wastewater lab analysis during the season, based on insights from the visit.”

Peer learning in action

The visit served as a catalyst for practical learning, open dialogue, and actionable insights. By engaging directly with Gitesi’s team and operations, participants gained the knowledge and confidence to upgrade their own systems. Many expressed concrete plans to improve composting techniques and implement proper wastewater treatment.

As a model for circular production, Gitesi Coffee Company demonstrated that sustainability and efficiency can go hand in hand, offering inspiration and guidance for Rwanda’s growing coffee sector.

About EU-EAC MARKUP II

The EU-EAC MARKUP II is a regional development initiative that promotes economic growth in the East African Community (EAC) through private sector development and export promotion. It seeks to enhance sustainable and inclusive intra-African trade, pan-African trade, and trade with the European Union (EU).

It supports initiatives to address selected supply side constraints and enhance competitiveness. These include reducing market access barriers, strengthening the quality compliance and standards, value addition, certification, training and capacity building for improved market access. MARKUP II is implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC), and in partnership with the EU.