ApiTrade Africa in Zimbabwe

The 4th ApiTrade Africa Event was held in Harare, Zimbabwe from 6–11 October: the Local Organising Committee and Secretariat at the Ministry of Agriculture successfully delivered the biggest beekeeping event to have been held there. Representatives from 14 countries attended with Botswana, Mozambique and Swaziland participating for the first time.

In addition to the technical papers (see www.apitradeafrica. org) there was a discussion concerning honey trade with expert panelists from Tanzania, Uganda, UK and Zimbabwe.

The discussion focussed on beeswax trade, explaining that the international demand for beeswax free from chemical contamination far exceeds the supply – making clean African beeswax highly sought after. Provided that good harvesting practices are always used, honey and beeswax harvested from local-style hives and from movable frame hives do not differ in quality. The UK buyer David Wainwright, told the African audience that, in his experience, the unique selling point of African honey is its excellent and desirable flavour.

Jacqueline Gowe of Sweet Maungwe Ltd, Zimbabwe, shares her award of Best Overall Exhibitor at ApiExpo Africa 2014 with her mother (left) and aunt (right)

Mr Mutisi from Makoni Beekeepers Assocation in Zimbabwe is awarded by Dr Gumbo the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women’s Affairs, and Harun Baiya, Chairperson of ApiTrade Africa

Mr Anas Moorbannoo of Miel’Or Ltd Mauritius, displays honey flavoured with chilli and cinnamon. He won 1st Runner-up in the Overall Exhibitor category of the show

The judging panel talk to Sabiti Kisembo at the stand of Bee Natural Uganda. The judges from left to right: Alice Kangave (Uganda), Mandla Langwenya (Swaziland), Joseph Sejewe (Botswana), Smith Nyatsande (Zimbabwe) and Mwanahamisi Mapolo (Tanzania)