Zimbabwe - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

The project aims to establish a thriving apiary business focused on sustainable beekeeping practices. The business will produce honey, beeswax, royal jelly and provide pollination services to local farms and orchards.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

We aims to establish itself as a leading provider of high-quality, sustainably produced honey and bee products in the local market. By prioritizing environmental stewardship, community engagement, and ethical business practices, the apiary business seeks to contribute positively to both local biodiversity conservation and economic development. Through continuous innovation and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we aims to achieve long-term sustainability and growth in the beekeeping industry.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

We are trying to solve four main problems: Pollination Crisis: Many crops, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts, depend on insect pollination to produce food. With the decline of wild pollinators due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change, beekeeping helps fill the gap by providing managed pollination services. Beekeepers can rent out their hives to farmers, ensuring adequate pollination and higher crop yields. Biodiversity Loss: Bees are crucial pollinators for numerous plant species, including wildflowers and trees. By maintaining healthy bee populations through beekeeping practices, beekeepers contribute to the preservation of biodiversity by ensuring the reproduction and survival of diverse plant species.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

Honey is rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which brings nutritional value. It can also be used as a skincare product, its richness in antibacterial properties and antimicrobial properties means it can be used for medical uses. Beeswax can be used to make cosmetics and skincare products, candles and to make leather and wood polish. Royal jelly can be used as a nutritional supplement. Bees are pollinators and are very crucial to the ecosystem. Bees also

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

We will be targeting people in the: 1 Cosmetics and Skincare Industry who manufacturers using beeswax and honey in skincare products like balms, lotions, and soaps. 2 Craft and Artisanal Market who uses beeswax for candles, sculpture, and woodworking projects. 3 Local Markets and Farm Shops: Retail outlets that cater to local produce and artisanal goods, including honey, beeswax candles, and skincare products. 4 Health Food Stores: Specialty stores that focus on natural and organic products, including honey and bee-related items. 5 Restaurants and Bakeries: Businesses using honey as an ingredient or selling honey-based products like honey-infused desserts or honey for breakfast service. 6 Health-Conscious Consumers: Individuals seeking natural and organic products, including raw honey and beeswax-based skincare items. 7 Gourmet and Specialty Food Enthusiasts: Those interested in unique honey varieties (e.g., lavender-infused honey, wildflower honey) for culinary purposes. Alternative

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-01-01

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

3

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

2

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Batsirai Runeka is a marketing expert by experience. He is very good at sales and marketing and is also a strategic thinker. He possesses up to 4 years hands on experience in the marketing field. Isheunesu Muza is a risk analysis student. She possesses 2 years experience in customer handling and sales. Apart from being flexible, she also possesses exceptional communication skills and analytical skills. She is currently studying for a risk and insurance degree at National University of Science and Technology. Vimbai Chataika is an administrator, customer service and operations person. She possesses the ability to pay special attention to details. She has 3 years experience in sales and administration. She is currently studying towards a banking and finance degree at Zimbabwe Open University. Golden Jaya is a holder of an accounting degree with up to 5 years experience in finance and accounting. He possesses meticulous financial analytical skills and management accounting skills

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

b) Materials (agriculture, fishing, chemical products, construction materials, containers and packaging, metals and mining, paper and forest products)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

We intent to contribute to poverty eradication by: 1. Job creation: Establishing and running an apiary business creates employment opportunities, from beekeepers and apiary technicians to sales and marketing personnel. This contributes to local economic growth and reduces unemployment. 2. Skills development: Apiary businesses often include educational components such as workshops, training programs, and demonstrations on beekeeping techniques, environmental stewardship, and sustainable practices. By sharing knowledge and skills with local communities, especially youth and women, your business empowers individuals to engage in beekeeping as a viable livelihood option.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

Through our business, the community will benefit from: 1. Enhanced agricultural productivity Bees are vital pollinators for agricultural crops. By providing pollination services to local farmers, our apiary business can significantly improve crop yields and quality. This boost in productivity directly impacts farmers' incomes by ensuring better harvests and higher marketable yields, thereby reducing food insecurity and increasing financial stability. 2. Global Impact Through Sustainable Practices By promoting sustainable beekeeping practices and ethical sourcing of hive products, our apiary business contributes to global efforts to achieve food security and end hunger. Sustainable practices ensure the continued availability of pollinators and agricultural resources for future generations, supporting global food systems resilience. 3. Environmental Sustainability Beekeeping promotes sustainable agricultural practices and biodiversity conservation.

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

1. Nutritious Honey and Hive Products Honey produced by our apiary business is a natural sweetener rich in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 2. Support for Allergy Relief: Local honey is often touted for its potential to alleviate seasonal allergies. Consuming honey produced in the region where allergens are present may help build tolerance to local pollen, reducing allergy symptoms and improving respiratory health for allergy sufferers. 3. Skincare and Beauty Benefits Beeswax, another product of beekeeping, is used in cosmetics and skincare products for its emollient and protective properties. It helps moisturize the skin, protect against environmental stressors, and promote skin health without clogging pores. 4. Community Engagement and Social Well-being Beekeeping can bring communities together through shared activities and interests in agriculture, sustainability, and environmental conservation.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

We intend to support women through: 1. Supporting Women-Owned Businesses: If feasible, collaborate with or purchase from women-owned businesses in our industry. By supporting women entrepreneurs, you contribute to a more inclusive and equitable economic environment. 2. Advocate for Policy Changes: Get involved in advocacy efforts to support policies that promote gender equality in agriculture and entrepreneurship. This can include advocating for fair access to resources, funding, and representation in industry organizations. 3. Leadership Opportunities: Create pathways for women to take on leadership roles within our apiary business. This can include opportunities for advancement, mentorship programs, or leadership training that empower women to excel in managerial or decision-making positions. 4. Employment Opportunities: Offer employment opportunities to individuals regardless of gender. This includes hiring women as beekeepers, managers, marketers, or salespersons.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

We will: 1. Set up water Sources for Bees: To ensure our apiary has reliable access to clean water sources. You can set up water stations or water sources near your hives to ensure the health and productivity of your bees. This indirectly helps the environment by supporting pollination and biodiversity. 2. We will also implement water water conservation practices in our apiary operations. This can include using, rainwater harvesting, or reducing water wastage in our facilities. 3. Infrastructure Development: We will invest in infrastructure projects that improve water access and sanitation facilities in the community. This will involve funding or supporting initiatives such as building wells, sanitation facilities, or water purification systems. 4.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

6

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

We are considering: 1. Solar Energy Install solar panels on our buildings to generate renewable energy. Solar energy is clean, sustainable, and can significantly reduce electricity costs over time. By investing in solar power, we can also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 2. Exploring the possibility of setting up biogas digesters using organic waste from our apiary operations. Biogas can be used for cooking, heating, or generating electricity. It's a renewable energy source that reduces methane emissions and provides a clean alternative to fossil fuels. 3. We are also exploring the potential of producing biofuels from waste materials generated by our apiary, such as beeswax or honey residues. Biofuels can be used as an alternative to fossil fuels for heating or transportation, contributing to cleaner air and reduced carbon emissions.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

1. By providing jobs within your apiary business, such as beekeepers, administrative staff, marketers, and technicians, thereby contributing to local employment opportunities. Aim to offer fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for skills development and career advancement. 2. Invest in training and capacity building programs for our employees. Provide opportunities for learning about beekeeping techniques, business management, and sustainable practices. This not only enhances productivity but also empowers individuals with valuable skills that can be transferred to other sectors. 3. Supporting Local Suppliers Source supplies and services locally whenever possible. This supports local businesses and stimulates economic activity within the community. Collaborate with local suppliers for equipment, packaging materials, and other needs, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

We will embrace innovation and technology in our apiary operations. This will include adopting modern beekeeping practices, using data analytics for hive management, or exploring new product development opportunities. Innovation drives productivity and competitiveness, contributing to economic growth.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

1. Waste Reduction and Circular Economy Utilize beekeeping by-products such as beeswax and propolis in sustainable ways. For example, beeswax can be used in natural cosmetics or beeswax wraps, promoting a circular economy and reducing waste in urban environments. 2. Pollination and Biodiversity Bees play a crucial role in pollinating crops and wild plants, which supports urban agriculture and enhances biodiversity in cities. By maintaining healthy bee populations and promoting pollinator-friendly practices, business contributes to urban green spaces and ecological balance. 3. Local Food Production: Beekeeping can contribute to local food production by providing honey, beeswax, and other hive products. This reduces the environmental footprint associated with transporting food over long distances and supports local food security and resilience.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

1. Sustainable Practices: Implement sustainable beekeeping practices that minimize environmental impact. This includes using natural hive management techniques, reducing chemical inputs, and promoting biodiversity conservation around apiary sites. 2. Quality Standards: Adhere to high-quality standards for honey and bee products. Ensure product traceability, hygiene standards, and compliance with food safety regulations. By maintaining quality assurance, you promote consumer confidence and responsible consumption practices. 3. Waste Reduction: Utilize beekeeping by-products such as beeswax and propolis in sustainable ways. For example, beeswax can be used in cosmetics, candles, or natural food wraps, contributing to a circular economy and reducing waste.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

1. Pollination Services: Bees are critical pollinators for crops and wild plants. By maintaining healthy bee populations and supporting biodiversity, our business enhances ecosystem resilience against climate impacts. Healthy ecosystems contribute to carbon sequestration and help mitigate the effects of climate change. 2. Carbon Sequestration: Apiaries can contribute to carbon sequestration by promoting plant growth and biodiversity through pollination services. Healthy vegetation absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, reducing greenhouse gas concentrations and mitigating climate change. 3. Sustainable Land Use: Implementing sustainable land management practices around apiary sites, such as preserving natural habitats and minimizing agricultural intensification, helps maintain carbon-rich soils and biodiversity. This reduces emissions from land-use change and promotes ecosystem health.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

3

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

We have no seas and oceans

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

1. Habitat Preservation: Maintain and preserve natural habitats around apiary sites to support native flora and fauna. Protecting natural ecosystems helps maintain biodiversity, soil health, and water quality, contributing to ecosystem resilience. 2. Bee-Friendly Landscaping: Promote bee-friendly landscaping practices in urban and rural areas. Encourage the planting of pollinator-friendly plants and flowers that provide food and habitat for bees and other pollinators. This supports ecosystem health and enhances pollination services. 3. Conservation of Pollinators: Implement practices that protect and conserve pollinator species, including bees. This may involve reducing pesticide use, providing nesting sites for native bees, and promoting habitat corridors that connect fragmented ecosystems.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Conflict Resolution: Facilitate conflict resolution and mediation processes within communities where our operates. Promote inclusive decision-making and dialogue to address potential conflicts related to land use, resource management, or economic opportunities. Employment and Livelihood Opportunities: Provide employment and livelihood opportunities, particularly to marginalized groups and women within beekeeping communities. Empower individuals through skills training, capacity building, and fair employment practices, contributing to social inclusion and economic stability. Promotion of Cultural Heritage: Respect and promote the cultural heritage and traditional knowledge associated with beekeeping. Recognize and celebrate indigenous practices related to beekeeping, honey production, and environmental stewardship, fostering pride and cultural identity within communities.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Support for Global Goals: Align your business practices with global sustainability goals, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Focus on goals related to poverty alleviation, food security, biodiversity conservation, and climate action through your apiary operations and partnerships. Knowledge Sharing and Capacity Building: Share expertise, best practices, and technological innovations in beekeeping, sustainable agriculture, and environmental stewardship with international partners. Collaborate on research initiatives, capacity-building programs, and skills training to enhance global capabilities in beekeeping and sustainable practices. Technology Transfer: Facilitate technology transfer and exchange of sustainable farming technologies, hive management techniques, and agricultural innovations with partners in developing countries.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

5

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

5

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

3

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

5

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

3

05.08 Justification

The market for by-products of honey have not been exploited in Zimbabwe

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Small farmers who operate on a small scale. I stand out from them since i plan on using sophisticated technology.

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

No