Kivu Noir, Kigali

My tasty African latte from Kivu Noir

If you’re in Kigali, Rwanda and looking for a trendy African coffee shop, look no further than Kivu Noir. The decor is modern and chic and the tea and coffee selection is just right.

I’m not a big coffee drinker so I scrolled through the menu (accessed via QR code) had the “African latte” which is a delicious blend of black tea with ginger and honey. While the coffee shop offers great drinks and an awesome setting, the most impressive part of the business is that it works with local communities to bring coffee lovers exclusive coffee made from beans sourced near the iconic Lake Kivu.

Their coffee is made from Rwanda Red Bourbon Arabica beans sourced through local farmers that Kivu Noir works with directly. It’s the very real version of “from farm to table” (or coffee cup). As they work directly with local farmers – and use some of their profits to sow back into the communities the farmers live in – they also offer coffee tours.

I like that the model benefits the commercial business in a bustling city as well as the businesses run by local farmers and rural communities that provide services to that business in the city. I also like that it’s Black-owned and run with the founder and CEO being a Rwandan himself. We love to see people thriving.

Yes, the business model is awesome and the work they do with communities is necessary (and commendable), I hear – from the coffee lovers – that the coffee is also delicious. So when all indicators (quality of product, great service, and real community value) are showing it’s a win, it’s definitely worth trying.

Head to downtown Kigali and have a try for yourself.