Namentenga Beekeepers Unite: Conference Charts Path for a Thriving Honey Sector
In a significant push to revitalize local agriculture, the ‘Cultivons l’avenir’ association hosted a pivotal conference for honey sector stakeholders in Namentenga province. The event, held on November 7, 2025, in Boulsa, aimed to unlock the region’s potential in honey production and value addition, running parallel to a fair promoting orange-fleshed sweet potatoes.
Expert Insights to Sweeten the Deal
Presided over by Provincial High Commissioner Adama Conseiga, the conference featured presentations from two professionals of the Burkina Faso Honey Interprofessional Association (IP-Miel/BF), Ms. Larissa Bougoussar and Zidyon Sandouidi. A captivated audience of modern, traditional, and aspiring beekeepers absorbed a comprehensive overview of the industry’s landscape.
Larissa Bougoussar, a recognized expert and technical assistant for IP-Miel, delivered a presentation that left no stone unturned. She detailed the significant economic and health benefits of honey, outlined Burkina Faso’s standing in the global honey market, and demystified various production and harvesting techniques. Crucially, she also addressed the pressing challenges currently stifling the sector’s growth.
A Hive of Activity: Beekeepers Share Experiences and Concerns
The conference was far from a one-way conversation. It blossomed into a dynamic forum where participants exchanged firsthand experiences and tackled practical issues head-on. Discussions buzzed around critical topics such as ensuring reliable water sources for bee colonies, the undeniable environmental advantages of sustainable beekeeping, and the financial considerations of acquiring beehives.
Amid the productive dialogue, a sobering note was struck as beekeepers voiced deep concern over the ongoing security situation, which has hampered agricultural development across the province. Their discussions were underpinned by a collective and fervent hope for a swift return to peace and stability across Burkina Faso, a fundamental prerequisite for the sector to truly flourish.
Leadership Commits to a Sweeter Future
The president of the ‘Cultivons l’avenir’ association, Christophe Sandouidi, expressed his satisfaction with the strong turnout and the active participation of local beekeepers. He extended gratitude for the support from the High Commissioner and reaffirmed his organization’s unwavering commitment to promoting the honey sector. In a call to action that resonated with the health-focused theme, Sandouidi urged, “Let’s replace refined sugar with honey in our diet as much as possible.”
Echoing this sentiment, High Commissioner Adama Conseiga commended the association for its valuable initiative. He praised the dedication of IP-Miel/BF and, most importantly, highlighted the remarkable resilience demonstrated by the local beekeepers who continue to nurture their craft despite adversity.
Source: Burkina Information Agency (AIB)