Coffee bikes a global project to aid Rwanda

Project Rwanda is a non-profit charity that is helping coffee farmers in Rwanda replace the wooden bikes they use to take coffee cherries to washing stations. Improved speed keeps the coffee cherries fresher and makes them more valuable.

Two-wheel vehicles will make trip from fields to bean-washing site far less arduous

Ritchey envisages a new bike industry within Rwanda, making ownership possible for the majority of Rwandans who can't afford imported bikes.

Rwandan coffee took a major step forward in 2001, when with international assistance farmers began investing in specialty coffee.

Rare, prestigious heirloom "bourbon" varieties of Arabica Coffee now reign.

Karuletwa says part of his organization's mission is to find new markets for Rwanda's coffee through its Wooden Bike Coffee arm. (It can be bought on-line at www.woodenbikecoffee.com.)

Karuletwa, born in Uganda to Rwandan parents, said President Paul Kagame and his government have done a good job in rebuilding Rwanda and giving people hope for the future.

Last August, about 140 of Rwanda's top quality specialty coffees took part in the Golden Cup coffee competition, Africa's first such event. Rwanda won the Success and Distinction award at the 2007 international Cup of Excellence competition, where the world's best compete.

"Second Cup, through its Cup of Hope, is sourcing coffee direct from Rwanda and helping the local economy," said Karuletwa. "Rwanda isn't looking for handouts, but a hand up through business. We hope Canadians will ask for Rwandan coffee in their cafes and then come and visit its source.

"They could take part in the Wooden Bike Classic, tour our dramatically beautiful country and then perhaps stay for a few days to share their skills."