Expertise France is the French agency for international technical cooperation, and it’s a member of the AFD Group (French Development Agency). As the second largest development agency in Europe, it designs and implements international cooperation projects that aim to strengthen public policies sustainably in key areas of development. Together with its partners, it contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

As part of the implementation of the ZimBEE Project, which aims to strengthen the honey value chain sector in Zimbabwe, Expertise France is recruiting a consultant specialized in training farmers on modern beekeeping techniques and environmentally friendly beekeeping techniques (pollination, maintenance of honey plants, water management, use of pesticides, reduction of eco-busting, and protection of endemic species) to offer consultancy services in the form of capacity building for the 455 identified beneficiaries.

Beekeeping is a vital source of livelihood for rural communities and plays a crucial role in biodiversity through pollination. However, unsustainable practices, poor environmental management, and limited access to modern techniques have reduced productivity and endangered bee populations. This consultancy seeks to equip targeted beekeepers with the skills to practice modern, sustainable, and environmentally friendly apiculture that enhances honey yields while conserving ecosystems.

1.       Project Description’s

The ZimBEE project aims to contribute to the sustainable development of the honey value chain, unlocking its potential for a) reducing vulnerabilities among rural populations and b) generating exports of higher value-added products. Implemented by Expertise France in collaboration with ZimTrade, the project covers three apicultural clusters comprising 455 producers and is structured around three components:

1)      Strengthening the capacities of ZimTrade,

2)      Establishing a “Center of Excellence” for honey research, studies, and analysis, and

3)      Supporting the structuring of the apiculture sector, with a strong focus on women, under the supervision of ZimTrade, in order to improve the sector’s overall functionality.

Expected Project Impact:

-          Improvement in living conditions for populations in the 3 beneficiary clusters:

-          455 honey producers adopt sustainable and environmentally friendly beekeeping practices through training and the provision of equipment, leading to improved living conditions through increased incomes.

-          Additionally, honey production in the three clusters increases in both quantity and quality, with new markets and derivative products being developed, thereby fostering diversification of local production. This diversification contributes to the creation of decent jobs within the three beneficiary clusters.