Tanzania orders regions to construct honey-quality testing labs

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Ambassador Dr. Pindi Chana, has directed the construction of honey-quality testing laboratories in every region of Tanzania, alongside conducting a review of the structure of the beekeeping cadre to strengthen the country’s beekeeping sector.

Dr. Chana issued the directive on June 23, 2025, during the 17th National Advisory Committee Meeting on Beekeeping Development (NABAC) held at the National College of Tourism conference hall in Dar es Salaam.

“We already have a bee products laboratory in Njiro, but we need more laboratories to serve the entire country. We must look into how each region can have its lab,” emphasized Dr. Chana.

She added that the time has come to closely examine the welfare of beekeeping professionals, including improving their salaries and ensuring regular forums are held to allow officers to share ideas, express challenges, and contribute to the growth of the sector.

“I direct that we organize a national meeting of all beekeeping officers in collaboration with the President’s Office, Regional Administration, and Local Government (TAMISEMI), so we can hear their views, especially since their employment conditions have posed various challenges,” said Dr. Chana.

The minister also commended the NABAC committee for the achievements made during its three-year term in accordance with legal requirements.

ALSO READ: SMEs sell honey worth 2bn/- to foreign markets

Highlighting those achievements, Dr. Chana said that 13 bee reserves have been established, while 23 more reserves are at various stages of being formally declared. These efforts have enhanced areas for beekeeping and contributed to environmental conservation.

Additionally, she noted that the committee has facilitated increased honey sales both domestically and internationally, the creation of the Tanzania Honey Brand, and the opening of new export markets in the European Union, Asia, and China.

Overall, Minister Chana emphasized that these initiatives are aimed at boosting the contribution of the beekeeping sector to the country’s economic development and improving the livelihoods of communities engaged in this important industry.