In a landmark achievement, Tanzania has been selected to host the 50th World Congress of Beekeepers, known as Apimondia, scheduled for September 20-25, 2027, in the city of Arusha. This prestigious event is expected to attract over 6,000 delegates from around the globe, including beekeepers, scientists, honey traders, and policymakers.

The announcement was made during the 2023 Apimondia Congress in Chile, where Tanzania emerged victorious over the United Arab Emirates in the final bidding round. The Tanzanian delegation, led by Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, Commissioner Benedict Wakulyamba, showcased the nation’s commitment to sustainable beekeeping practices and forest conservation

Hosting Apimondia 2027 not only underscores Tanzania’s prominence in the global apiculture community but also highlights its potential as a prime investment destination in the beekeeping sector. Currently, Tanzania produces approximately 30,400 tonnes of honey annually, with plans to increase production to 60,000 tonnes by 2025.

Several factors make Tanzania an attractive hub for beekeeping investments:

1. Rich Biodiversity: Tanzania’s vast and diverse flora provides an ideal environment for beekeeping. The country’s forests and woodlands offer abundant nectar sources, essential for high-quality honey production.
2. Government Support: The Tanzanian government has demonstrated a strong commitment to the beekeeping industry. Initiatives include the development of national beekeeping strategies, promotion of sustainable practices, and the establishment of traceability systems to ensure quality and marketability of bee products. Open Knowledge FAO
3. Training and Education: Institutions such as the Beekeeping Training Institute in Tabora and Sokoine University of Agriculture in Morogoro offer specialized programs in apiculture. These institutions play a pivotal role in equipping beekeepers with modern techniques, enhancing productivity and product quality. Tanzania Times
4. Market Potential: With the global demand for natural and organic products on the rise, Tanzanian honey and beeswax have significant export potential. The upcoming Apimondia 2027 Congress is poised to open new international markets and partnerships for local producers.

In preparation for the congress, the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC) has announced plans to construct a state-of-the-art conference facility to accommodate the influx of delegates. This development signifies the country’s readiness to host large-scale international events and its dedication to advancing the beekeeping sector.

Investors looking to enter the beekeeping industry will find Tanzania’s combination of natural resources, institutional support, and strategic initiatives highly conducive to sustainable and profitable ventures. The Apimondia 2027 Congress serves as a catalyst, positioning Tanzania as a global leader in apiculture and a prime destination for investment in this burgeoning sector.