An Island of Hope

On Idjwi Island in the Democratic Republic of Congo, surrounded by the waters of Lake Kivu, coffee grows in fertile volcanic soil at 1,500–2,000 meters, producing rich sweetness, gentle spice, and vibrant fruit character. Among SCPNCK’s farmers, 484 women grow Red Bourbon coffee across six modernized washing stations, helping lead the cooperative’s work.

What began with 1,135 members has grown into a movement uniting women, youth, people with disabilities, and others rebuilding their futures — all working toward peace, inclusion, and economic empowerment. SCPNCK’s coffee is CPP and organically certified, scoring 86.7, with exports to Europe and the United States of America. The cooperative reinvested locally to improve life for farming families.

Every coffee shipped beyond Idjwi’s shores carries something greater than exceptional flavor — it carries a community rebuilding itself together.

Interested in sourcing from SCPNCK? Reach out to marketaccess@sustainablegrowers.org to request samples or learn more.

Coffee from the Island of Possibilities

Shaped by the volcanic soils and lake climate of Idjwi Island in South Kivu, OLAME produces a distinctive washed Bourbon coffee, layered with red currant, stone fruit, floral, and caramel notes, and offering a vibrant expression of this emerging Congolese origin.

Established in 2019, OLAME has grown to 1,245 members, operating two modern washing stations that have driven consistent improvements in quality and market access. Its coffees have achieved strong cupping results, including recognition at the 2025 Best of Congo Competition.

At the heart of this progress are women members increasingly shaping the cooperative’s growth. Through Village Savings and Loan Associations, more than 600 members, nearly half the cooperative, particularly women and young farmers, are strengthening their financial independence and livelihoods.

OLAME is more than an emerging origin — it’s a cooperative turning Idjwi’s terroir into opportunity, with women increasingly leading the way.

Interested in sourcing from OLAME? Reach out to marketaccess@sustainablegrowers.org to request samples or learn more.