Why Tanzanian honey is set to go places
What you need to know:
- An initiative under the Beekeeping Value Chain Support project, Tanzania Honey Trademark is funded by the EU and jointly implemented by The Belgian Development Agency and the International Trade Centre
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s high-quality honey is set for a major global recognition boost, thanks to the upcoming launch of the Tanzania Honey Trademark.
An initiative under the Beekeeping Value Chain Support (Bevac) project, Tanzania Honey Trademark is funded by the European Union (EU) and jointly implemented by The Belgian Development Agency (Enabel) and the International Trade Centre (ITC).
The Bevac project focuses on enhancing quality honey production, promoting value addition and strengthening trade within Tanzania’s beekeeping value chain.
Enabel project manager Stephen Paul said Tanzania Honey Trademark will be officially unveiled on October 4 at the Tabora at the Beekeeping Training Institute and will be graced by Tourism and Natural Resources minister Pindi Chana.
The launch will also include laying a foundation stone for a female dormitory at the institute.
“The launch of this trademark represents more than just a certification—it is a recognition of the exceptional quality of Tanzanian honey and beeswax, which generate about 9.55 million Euros each year,” said Mr Paul.
By creating a trusted trademark of quality, he said, Tanzania was enhancing the marketability of its honey products and supporting the livelihoods of thousands of beekeepers and traders across the country.
The Tanzania Honey Trademark, he said, symbolises excellence and represents the superior quality of Tanzanian honey in both local and international markets.
As a government institution mandated for trade development of all Tanzanian products, the Tanzania Trade Development Authority (Tantrade) is responsible for managing this Trademark owned by the Tanzanian government, will be a representation of quality and high standards for consumers seeking authentic, premium Tanzanian honey products.
The Tantrade Director General Latifa Khamis said the initiative will enhance Tanzania’s exports.
“By promoting this Trademark, we are creating new opportunities for our beekeepers and contributing to the broader goal of economic empowerment and market diversification,” she said.
The Bevac project has been instrumental in providing education and training to beekeepers on sustainable practices, enabling them to meet international standards for safety, quality, and traceability. So far, 4151 beneficiaries - 38 traders, 4,113 beekeepers and numerous exporters - have received significant support, including resources and market linkages, to help them thrive in both local and international markets.
Operating in beekeeping key regions across Tanzania, including Kigoma, Shinyanga, Tabora, Katavi, Singida, and Pemba Island, the Bevac project ensures that the benefits of improved beekeeping practices and market opportunities are widely distributed.
The launch of the Tanzania Honey Trademark represents an important milestone as the beekeeping sector aims to double its output from 30,000 to 60,000 tonnes per annum by 2025.
