Significant Progress Observed in Strengthening Quality Compliance Capacity of Honey Value Chain in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, April 29/2024 (ENA)  The Global Market Access Programme (GMAP) in Ethiopia announced the significant progresses in strengthening the quality compliance capacity of the honey value chain for enhanced market access. 

The GMAP in Ethiopia aims at ensuring compliance with international standards, improving honey products quality, facilitating business linkages, and sustaining project results throughout the honey value chain. 

Over the past six months, the project has achieved remarkable milestones.

In this regard, a Business Agreements Signing ceremony, as well as the Handing-over of Beekeepers accessories took place in Jimma, Oromia Regional State.

The Business Agreements signing ceremony marked a pivotal moment in the project’s implementation journey. 

 

Notably, agreements for nearly 90 tons of quality honey and beeswax, for exporting to the international market, were signed between three processors and beekeepers’ community in Gera woreda (Jimma zone), underscoring the tangible outcomes of collaborative efforts.

Furthermore, the handing-over of beekeeper’s accessories highlighted the commitment to further empower Ethiopia’s beekeeping community. 

Following intensive training sessions, essential beekeeping accessories have been procured and distributed to the lead beekeepers from the Jimma, Illubabor, and Bedele zones, demonstrating tangible support for sustainable quality beekeeping practices.

UNIDO Regional Hub in Ethiopia, Aurelia Patrizia Calabrò said the Global Market Access Programme in Ethiopia is a great example of the impactful collaboration between UNIDO and local stakeholders.

 “We are very happy to witness these positive transformations within the honey value chain, paving the way for sustainable economic growth and enhanced market access”. 

The GMAP project remains committed to driving positive changes within the honey value chain in Ethiopia.

State Minister of Agriculture, Fikru Regassa said on his part the GMAP Ethiopia project is actively collaborating with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration to promote a sustainable honey-producing industry. 

The project has been launched at the right time and is aligned with the government’s overarching objectives, prioritizing environmentally responsible practices that benefit both communities and the environment, he added.

Administrator of Jimma Zone, Yusuf Sharo expressed profound optimism as he unveiled the remarkable growth trajectory of the region’s honey exports.

From 15 tons in 2023 to an astounding 90 tons in the first two quarters of 2024, the honey of Jimma Zone flows forth, a testament to the resilience and the boundless potential of the land, he added.