Organized by the National Agricultural Export Development Board in partnership with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Sustainable Harvest, the competition aimed at promoting Rwanda coffee consumption both locally and internationally and Barista competition culture in coffee industry which is relatively new in Rwanda.
The contestants were coached and mentored by 2011 World Barista Champion, Alejandro Mendez who was also the chief judge of the competition.
According to Amb. George William Kayonga, the Barista competition in Rwanda is the road to the World Coffee Barista Champion and an opportunity for Rwanda’s Coffee to be well positioned on the global market.
Speaking to the press, Aiden Miller, the winner of the competition who is also the founder and owner of Crema Coffee shop in Musanze District, said that the championship had motivated them to take care of their customers with quality services delivery.
“We will ensure that knowledge and skills gained from expert Barista will add value to the coffee cup of our clients.” Miller told the press.
The representative of JICA in Rwanda, Takada Hiroyuki lauded the event as educational for baristas in the business.
“Rwanda is developing so quickly and coffee has not been left behind in the process. Five years ago you could hardly find a place to buy your favorite coffee drink outside hotels. Nowadays coffee shop is a hot business. It is important that we improve the skills of Rwandan coffee barista so that the cup quality impresses the consumer.” Takada Hiroyuki said.
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