A sweet revolution: How ComDev helped MVIWAMA and MVIWARUSHA transform the United Republic of Tanzania's honey industry

In the lush landscapes of the United Republic of Tanzania, where the air is thick with the scent of blooming flora, a sweet revolution is quietly taking place. This transformation is spearheaded by the Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) programme and is being brought to life by two dedicated organizations: the Mufindi Tree Growers Association (MVIWAMA) and the Arusha Farmers Group (MVIWARUSHA). Together, they are reshaping the honey value chain and bringing prosperity and sustainability to their communities, with effective communication playing a pivotal role.  

Established to support smallholder tree farmers, MVIWAMA has expanded its activity to include beekeeping, integrating it seamlessly with agroforestry. Anna Mwakalinga, a seasoned beekeeper, tends to her apiary nestled among towering eucalyptus and indigenous trees. Her journey into beekeeping began with a training session organized by MVIWAMA and supported by the FFF programme. "Before, we harvested honey in the traditional way, often damaging the hives and disturbing the bees," she recalls. "Now, with modern techniques, our yields have doubled and the quality is superb."  

 In addition to providing training, MVIWAMA has established a cooperative model that pools resources and shares knowledge, ensuring that all members benefit. This collective strength has opened doors to new markets. Through strategic branding and packaging, MVIWAMA honey now graces the shelves of regional stores, commanding higher prices and earning loyal customers.  

Effective communication has been instrumental in MVIWAMA's success. Based on the participatory approaches of Communication for Development (ComDev), regular meetings and workshops facilitated by the FFF programme have created a platform for knowledge exchange and collective problem-solving. WhatsApp groups and community radio programmes have kept members informed of market trends, training opportunities and policy changes. This flow of information has empowered farmers to make informed decisions and to quickly adapt to changing circumstances.  

ComDev principles have played a significant role in these successes as they emphasize participatory communication processes that involve all stakeholders in the decisionmaking process. By ensuring that community members are active participants rather than passive recipients of information, initiatives like those of MVIWAMA can foster greater engagement and ownership among participants.   

In the vibrant region of Arusha, MVIWARUSHA is taking the honey value chain to the next level. This group of enterprising farmers has embraced beekeeping as a core activity, but with a twist: they focus heavily on value addition. Here too, ComDev has been an asset.  

 John Mollel, a young and enthusiastic member of MVIWARUSHA, walks us through their bustling processing facility. "We don't just sell honey; we create products that cater to diverse markets," he explains. Rows of neatly labeled jars line the shelves, alongside beeswax candles, propolis tinctures and honeybased cosmetics. This diversification is a game-changer, opening new revenue streams and reducing reliance on raw honey sales.  

The journey to this point has been paved with challenges. Initially, the farmers faced issues with quality control and market access. However, with the support of the FFF programme, MVIWARUSHA has implemented rigorous quality standards and explored certification options, such as organic and fair trade labels. These certifications not only ensure quality but also attract premium buyers, both local and international.  

ComDev has also been a linchpin for MVIWARUSHA’s progress. The group has utilized community meetings, mobile communication and social media to coordinate activities, share best practices and disseminate vital information. Regular updates on market conditions and consumer preferences have helped members target their production and marketing strategies effectively. Moreover, participation in regional fairs and exhibitions has enhanced their visibility and created networking opportunities that are crucial for business growth.  

The stories of MVIWAMA and MVIWARUSHA are not just about honey; they are about empowerment, resilience and sustainable development. They exemplify how targeted support, effective communication and collective action can transform livelihoods and create lasting change. As the United Republic of Tanzania continues its journey towards sustainable development, the sweet success of these honey producers serves as an inspiring model for other communities to follow.