Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – The country’s honey industry is poised for a major breakthrough on international markets following the commissioning of specialised Honey Testing and Profiling Laboratory equipment in Harare that will enable locally produced honey to meet stringent export standards, particularly for the lucrative European Union (EU) market.
The new laboratory, established through a €1.5 million investment funded by the French government through the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) under its Trade Capacity-Building Programme and implemented by Expertise France in partnership with ZimTrade, is expected to strengthen quality assurance, improve traceability and boost the country’s agricultural exports.
The laboratory equipment was commissioned by Chief Director of Veterinary Services, Dr Pious Makaya who said the investment marks a significant milestone in positioning the country as a competitive exporter of high-quality honey.
“This laboratory is more than just scientific equipment. It is a strategic national asset that strengthens Zimbabwe’s ability to protect public health, guarantee food safety and compete confidently in international markets.
“The investment directly supports Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy (NDS 2) by promoting value addition, innovation and export-led economic growth. It also demonstrates government’s commitment to building resilient agricultural value chains that benefit our producers,” he said.
He expressed government’s appreciation to the French government for supporting the country’s efforts to modernise its laboratory infrastructure and enhance international trade competitiveness.
The newly commissioned equipment will enable the Central Veterinary Laboratory to undertake advanced testing, including pesticide residue analysis, honey adulteration detection, verification of botanical and geographical origin, and comprehensive honey quality profiling in line with internationally recognised Codex Alimentarius standards.
Officials said the enhanced testing capacity will improve product traceability, strengthen consumer confidence and ensure local honey complies with the strict requirements of premium export destinations.
ZimTrade chief executive officer, Allan Majuru said international markets are increasingly demanding scientific proof of product authenticity before accepting imports.
“Global buyers are no longer satisfied with general quality assurances. They now require internationally recognised laboratory certification that verifies the authenticity, purity and quality of honey.
“This laboratory closes that gap for Zimbabwe. It gives our producers the scientific credibility needed to access high-value export markets while creating new income opportunities for rural beekeepers,” Majuru said.
He said the development would significantly enhance Zimbabwe’s competitiveness in global honey trade and support efforts to diversify agricultural exports.
The laboratory complements the Zim-BEE Project, launched in March 2025, which has already trained more than 650 beekeepers across Matabeleland North, Mashonaland East and Manicaland in modern beekeeping techniques, business management and climate-smart honey production while providing improved beekeeping equipment.
AFD Project Manager for Zimbabwe, Lou Cambarrat-Roux said the investment reflects growing confidence in the country’s agricultural potential.
“We are proud to support Zimbabwe’s honey sector because it has enormous potential to contribute to sustainable economic development and rural livelihoods,” she said.
“The Zim-BEE Project shows how investing in sustainable value chains can create lasting commercial partnerships while benefiting communities, businesses and the environment,” she said.
Industry experts believe the laboratory will not only expand export opportunities but also improve rural incomes, create employment and reinforce Zimbabwe’s reputation as a producer of safe, high-quality honey.
The commissioning further strengthens the Directorate of Veterinary Services'(DVS) role in safeguarding food safety and facilitating international trade through internationally accredited, science-based laboratory services, positioning Zimbabwean honey to compete confidently on the global market.
New Ziana
