Mahembe

Producer

Mahembe

Justin Musabyimana founded Mahembe Washing Station after returning to Nyamasheke, the region where he grew up. His goal was to invest in the local community by building a wet mill on his father’s land, helping smallholder farmers process and sell their cherry. Alongside operating Mahembe, Justin also cultivates his own 8-hectare farm, giving him a close understanding of the challenges farmers face. He’s built a reputation for producing clean, consistent coffees through clear protocols and hands-on management. We’ve been working with Justin through Nordic Approach since 2021 and continue to select his lots for their distinctive character, reliable quality, and traceable origin.

High altitude, cool nights, and volcanic soil shape the juicy, structured character of coffees from Mahembe.

Mahembe sits at 1900 metres above sea level in western Rwanda, where cool temperatures help slow fermentation and drying. The region’s volcanic soil, combined with high altitude and the exclusive use of Red Bourbon, gives coffees from Mahembe a vibrant structure and clean profile. Cherries come from both Justin’s farm and surrounding smallholders, many of whom grow coffee on small family plots. Justin’s long-standing community ties and competitive pricing allow him to maintain strong farmer relationships. Processing at Mahembe is meticulous: from hand-sorting cherry, to dry fermentation, grading, soaking and slow drying on raised beds. Organic fertiliser made from the station’s pulp waste supports soil health—a small but meaningful step toward more sustainable farming.