Ruera Estate Natural, Kenya | FILTER

Kenya is home to nearly 700,000 coffee producers, 70% of whom are smallholders. Among its standout estates is Ruera Estate, located in Juja Sub County, Kiambu, about 15 km from Ruiru along Kiganjo Road. Formerly owned by Kakuzi Ltd., the estate was acquired by Socfinaf (now Kofinaf Co. Ltd.) in 2002.

Spanning 190 hectares, Ruera Estate benefits from support by Coffee Management Services, ensuring adherence to Good Agricultural Practices. Nestled at 1,577 meters above sea level, the estate’s bright red, nutrient-rich soils and gently sloping hills provide ideal conditions for slow cherry maturation. Irrigation during dry seasons helps maintain consistent quality.

This particular lot underwent the Natural process, a rarity in Kenya. After selective handpicking, cherries are floated to remove low-quality fruit, fermented in water for 12 hours, then dried on raised beds under the sun for 4–5 weeks until optimal moisture is reached. Once dried, cherries are hulled, sorted, and prepared for export.

Ruera Estate employs 300 staff, with 30% living onsite in estate-built housing. Residents benefit from a nursery and primary school, fostering a supportive community. Sustainability efforts include reforestation, energy conservation, waste management, and soil erosion control, all led by the Ruera team.

With a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and employee wellbeing, Ruera Estate continues to produce exceptional coffee while preserving the future of its community and ecosystem.