Day 12: Coffee, Community, and Global Connections at Lake Kivu
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026
Today was one of the most insightful and enjoyable days of our journey. We traveled by boat across the beautiful waters of Lake Kivu to visit a coffee washing station affiliated with Land of a Thousand Hills Coffee, a company that sources specialty coffee from Rwanda and has locations throughout the United States. The boat ride itself was an unforgettable experience. Lasting approximately an hour each way, it provided an opportunity to relax, take in the scenery, and connect with classmates. Along the journey, we passed small communities, fishing boats, and families going about their daily lives. At times, we could hear people singing across the water, creating a peaceful atmosphere that highlighted the strong sense of community that exists throughout Rwanda.
As we crossed Lake Kivu, we also learned about the lake's unique natural resources. One of the most fascinating topics was the extraction of methane gas from beneath the lake's surface, a resource that is being utilized to help generate electricity and support Rwanda's growing energy needs. This served as a reminder that Rwanda is rich in natural resources and continues to develop innovative ways to leverage those resources to support economic growth and sustainability.
Upon arriving at the coffee washing station, we had the opportunity to learn about the journey coffee takes from farm to cup. We observed the processing methods used to prepare coffee beans for export and learned how washing stations serve as critical collection and processing centers for thousands of smallholder farmers. Rwanda's coffee industry plays a significant role in connecting local farmers to international markets, demonstrating how even small agricultural communities can participate in the global economy through international trade and exports. Rwanda's specialty coffee industry has become recognized worldwide for its high-quality Arabica beans, particularly those grown in the volcanic soils surrounding Lake Kivu.
From a business perspective, the visit provided a powerful example of globalization in action. The coffee grown on the hillsides surrounding Lake Kivu eventually reaches consumers across North America, Europe, and beyond. Witnessing the supply chain firsthand helped me better understand how local industries can create global economic opportunities while supporting entrepreneurship, job creation, and community development. It was fascinating to see how international business, trade partnerships, and sustainable sourcing practices connect people from vastly different parts of the world through something as simple as a cup of coffee.
One of the most memorable parts of the day, however, had nothing to do with coffee production. The women working at the washing station welcomed us with incredible warmth and hospitality. We spent time dancing, laughing, and celebrating together despite our different backgrounds and languages. Their joy was contagious, and their kindness made us feel immediately at home. These moments reminded me that while globalization often focuses on products, trade, and economics, its greatest value is the connections it creates between people and cultures.
Throughout the day, I found myself increasingly appreciative of Rwanda's natural beauty and resources. The fertile volcanic soil, abundant freshwater resources, favorable climate, and breathtaking landscapes all contribute to the country's agricultural success and economic potential. Yet what stood out most was not simply the land itself, but the resilience, ingenuity, and hospitality of the people who steward it.
Today's experience expanded my understanding of globalization beyond what can be learned in a classroom. Seeing the coffee supply chain firsthand demonstrated how local communities can participate in global markets while maintaining their cultural identity and traditions. It reinforced the idea that international business is ultimately about relationships—relationships between farmers and buyers, businesses and communities, and people from different countries working toward shared goals.
The visit also reminded me that economic development is most meaningful when it creates opportunities that benefit local communities and preserve their ability to thrive for future generations. While global partnerships can bring investment, technology, and market access, they are most impactful when they empower local people and recognize the value of their contributions.
As I sat on the boat returning across Lake Kivu, watching the sun reflect across the water and the distant hills rise above the shoreline, I felt grateful for the opportunity to witness these connections firsthand. Today was not just about coffee; it was about understanding how natural resources, entrepreneurship, culture, and community intersect to create opportunities that extend far beyond Rwanda's borders. It was a powerful reminder that in our increasingly interconnected world, learning from one another may be one of the most valuable resources we have.
