about Nyamwenda Washing Station
Coopac was established in April of 2001 with 1,100 members aiming to regenerate the coffee sector in the Gisenyi region of Lake Kivu. The initial objectives were to take advantage of the excellent natural resources in our region and focus on producing the highest quality coffee for the gourmet market. Their goal was to gain higher returns for their collective efforts thereby increasing the well being of all the members. COOPAC coffee prices have been steadily climbing in recognition of the quality improvements, and in turn, the well being of its members has drastically improved through FairTrade initiatives that guarantee the farmers get their fair share. COOPAC went on to construct the Nyamwenda Washing Station in 2003 with a partial grant and partial credit. Today, around 50 washing stations dot the northern lake landscape and COOPAC has achieved FLO certification. The membership in 2004 had risen to 1,500 members. Currently that number stands at 2,198 members from the six areas of Ack, Ubuzima, Tuzamurane, Kopabm, Abakundakurima, and Abanyamurava, and they have exported 12 containers of Fair Trade certified coffee. COOPAC is currently promoting and providing shade tree saplings and agroforestry education to all its members to adhere to strict organic practices with ongoing assistance provided to fair trade community based initiatives. So far, this action has assisted in the construction of schools, health-care clinics, roads and bridges, as well as local women and youth development programs.
