People of Sucafina: Meet Emmanuel Akiba 

 1. When did you join Rwacof and what do you remember most about those early days?  

I joined on April 15, 1996, on Rwacof’s very first day. My first role was in finance, supporting coffee procurement, logistics and exports. At that time, the organization was small and everyone wore many hats. We were learning, building systems and figuring things out together. 

Those early days were defined by resilience and hope. Rwanda was rebuilding, and so was the coffee sector. There were many challenges – infrastructure, financing, access to markets – but there was also a strong sense of purpose. 

What motivated me was the belief that coffee could play an important role in rebuilding livelihoods. We weren’t just trading coffee; we were contributing to restoring an industry that supports thousands of farming families. That responsibility gave meaning to my work. 

2. Before becoming COO of Rwacof, you spent 17 years working in logistics. How did that operational experience influence the way you think about problem-solving and leadership today?  

Logistics teaches you discipline and problem-solving. When you work in exports, timing is everything. A small delay can have major consequences, so you learn to anticipate risks, plan carefully and stay calm under pressure. 

That experience shaped how I lead today. I focus on preparation, teamwork and accountability. Operations is about people working together efficiently. If the foundation is strong – with clear processes, good communication and trust – everything else follows suit. 

3.Over the past three decades, you’ve seen Rwacof grow and evolve alongside the Rwandan coffee sector itself. What have been the biggest changes and what has helped Rwacof adapt? 

The biggest change has been the shift toward quality and specialty coffee. In the early days we only dealt with home-processed coffee, and volume was the main focus. Over time, Rwacof has become known for exceptional quality, and we have invested heavily in washing stations, farmer training and traceability. 

Another major change has been professionalism across the sector, from stronger agronomy programs to better infrastructure and deeper collaboration with farmers and the National Agricultural Export Development Board. 

Rwacof has adapted by investing in more efficient processes and sustainability initiatives, while also maintaining good relationships with our partners and government authorities.  

4. What excites you most about your current role? 

I’m excited about strengthening our partnerships at origin. We have just launched a new partnership model, which will give us the opportunity to work even more closely with other local coffee washing station owners, not just as an exporter, but as a long-term partner. 

I’m also focused on operational excellence, improving efficiency, supporting our teams and empowering current and future generations. 

5. Looking back on your time at Rwacof, what has been your proudest moment or achievement?  

 My proudest achievement is seeing how far the company and the sector have come. From the beginning to today, it has been an incredible journey. 

Personally, I’m proud to have grown with the company. 17 years in logistics and now serving as COO reflects not only my journey, but the opportunities Rwacof and Sucafina provide for people to develop and lead. 

6.What advice would you give to people starting out in coffee today?  

Be patient and curious. Coffee is complex. Take the time to understand every part of the value chain, and remember that coffee, like many other sectors, is really all about people.  

QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS 

What’s your favorite way to drink coffee? 

I take it black, without sugar.  

If you could take on any other role in the company for one week, what would it be and why? 

I would spend a week as Managing Director, to gain a deeper understanding of how to align leadership, trading and operations, especially in complex or high-pressure situations. 

What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you? 

My dream job was to become an economist, but I have never had a role in that field.