The National Coffee Board (Ocir café) has urged farmers, dealers and processors to improve the quality of coffee they produce ahead of the upcoming Cup of Excellence competition.

Alex Kanyankore, the Director General of Ocir café explained that this is the only way for Rwanda to benefit from the event.

Improved quality coffee has better aroma, sweetness, cleanliness and flavour. The qualities judges consider in the competition, Kanyakore said. Should Rwandan coffee win, it will build a reputation on the international market.

The call comes at a time preparations for the Africa’s First Cup of Excellence Competition to be held in Rwanda have commenced.

Kanyakore said within the remaining time framework, there is much that can be done in order to improve on the quality of coffee before the competition set for next month (August).

Agnes Kalibata, State Minister for Agriculture said the competition is a great platform through which Rwandan coffee can be promoted on the international market.

Kalibata stressed that her ministry will make sure Rwandan coffee counts in regards to quality.

Vincent Karega, State Minister for Investment and Export Promotion said, "Winners are also linked directly with specialty niche markets. With time, this will encourage others farmers to put more efforts in producing quality leading to further high quality coffee.”

Non-winning coffees from the Cup of Excellence competition are sold at a live auction whereas winning ones are sold via an Internet auction.

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