Over 13 beekeeping cooperatives from various regions came together over the weekend for a special conference aimed at expanding networks and strengthening trade linkages within Tanzania’s honey sector.

The event was organized in Tabora by Enabel, the Belgian agency for international cooperation, with funding from the European Union under the Beekeeping Value Chain Support (BEVAC) Project. 

It provided a valuable platform for cooperatives to engage with key stakeholders, including the Tanzania Cooperative Bank, Moshi Cooperative University, and the Co-operative Audit and Supervision Corporation (COASO), to maximize their business potential.

In his keynote address, Tabora’s Regional Administrative Secretary, Dr. John Rogath Mboya, underscored the importance of adopting a cluster economic approach. “It is high time to ensure that every actor in the value chain fulfills their role. This will accelerate economic development in Tabora and beyond,” Dr. Mboya said.

He highlighted the government’s efforts to support the beekeeping sector in the region, noting that Tabora is endowed with vast beekeeping resources. “Joining groups such as cooperatives is the best way for beekeepers to fully benefit from the sector,” he added.

BEVAC Project Manager Stephen Magige explained that the forum was designed to spur honey business growth among cooperatives by digitizing their operations and equipping them with marketing skills.

During the event, cooperative leaders received digital tools to improve record-keeping and member management through the electronic cooperative management system (Mfumo wa Kielekroniki wa Usimamizi wa Vyama vya Ushirika - MUVU). They were also trained on digital marketing techniques, including the use of social media and online sales platforms.

To enhance marketing, sales, and access to financial services, the conference facilitated business-to-business (B2B) interactions among cooperatives, traders, and banks. Participants also exchanged contacts and discussed potential business partnerships.

The cooperatives represented at the event came from Tabora (Urambo, Sikonge, Kaliua, Uyui), Katavi (Mlele, Nsimbo, Tanganyika), Kigoma (Kibondo, Kakonko, Kasulu, Uvinza), Shinyanga (Ushetu-Kahama), and Singida (Doroto-Itigi).