DODOMA: THE government has urged Tanzanians to seize business opportunities in the beekeeping sector following a trade agreement between Tanzania and China, which has opened up a large market for honey and other bee products in China.
Deputy Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Mr Dunstan Kitandula made the statement here in the Parliament yesterday while responding to a question from Toufiq Salim Turky, (Mpendae-CCM) who wanted to know how the government is prepared to ensure Tanzanians participate in the International Federation of Beekeepers’ Associations Conference to be hosted in the country in 2027.
Mr Kitandula informed the Parliament that the government is well-prepared and has developed robust strategies to ensure that Tanzanians fully participate in and benefit from the International Beekeepers’ Conference (Apimondia) scheduled to be hosted in Tanzania in 2027.
He outlined that these strategies involve establishing a National Preparatory Committee, which will include members from both the government and the private sector.
This committee will coordinate efforts and oversee preparations to ensure the success of the conference.
Additionally, the government plans to collaborate with the private sector to organise exhibitions as part of the preparation efforts.
Notable exhibitions already held include World Bee Day from May 17-20, 2024, and the Tanzania International Honey Exhibition in Dar es Salaam from June 19-22, 2024.
To extend beekeeping education nationwide, Mr Kitandula urged beekeeping officers in municipal councils to enhance public education on proper beekeeping practices to improve honey quality.
He emphasized that Tanzania’s selection as the host for Apimondia 2027 presents an opportunity to promote bee products and investment opportunities within the beekeeping sector and honey trade.
The government is committed to ensuring that the conference not only showcases Tanzania’s beekeeping sector but also opens new markets for bee products globally.
ALSO READ: Beekeeping initiatives around Lake Manyara avert human-wildlife conflicts
The engagement of the private sector will be crucial in these preparations, ensuring the event’s success and maximising benefits for Tanzanians.