Laura Razanajatovo, executive director of Ilanga Nature, highlights the company's efforts to revive Madagascar's beekeeping industry. The industry had declined due to quality and hygiene issues, leading to a 1996 European Union embargo. The embargo was lifted in 2011, and Ilanga Nature relaunched the industry in 2017. The company has implemented strict procedures, including traçability, job creation, and environmental protection, to produce high-quality honey for export.
Ilanga Nature has invested in three honey processing centers and two mobile honey extractors, working with the Ministry of Livestock to ensure sanitary rules are respected. The company's two honey processing units in Antananarivo and Manakara are operational, with a third under construction in Fort-Dauphin. These units have been approved, making Ilanga Nature the sole exporter of honey to the European Union and the United States.
Ilanga Nature works directly with over 350 beekeepers, representing more than 4,500 beehives across the island. The company trains beekeepers in modern apiculture practices and provides them with equipment, including modern beehives. A contract is established with each beekeeper, guaranteeing a price for their honey, which varies depending on the region and floral origin.
The company's mobile honey extractor is a key factor in maintaining honey quality. The extractor, installed on a 4x4 truck, allows for honey extraction in strict hygienic conditions. The honey is then filtered and stored in new containers until it reaches the processing center. Ilanga Nature has also implemented a dehumidification system to reduce the moisture content of the honey.
Ilanga Nature's quality control process includes internal analysis and testing by external laboratories. The company works with the Pasteur Institute and laboratories in France and Belgium to verify the origin and quality of its honey. Ilanga Nature has also obtained bio certification from Ecocert for its beehives.
Madagascar's honey exports have increased, with 90 tons exported in 2018 and 87 tons in 2019. Ilanga Nature aims to export at least 100 tons of honey this year. The company's honey is prized for its unique flavor and aroma, thanks to Madagascar's diverse flora.
Ilanga Nature's efforts have contributed to the growth of Madagascar's beekeeping industry. The company's model has proven successful, and it aims to expand its operations further. With its focus on quality and sustainability, Ilanga Nature is helping to establish Madagascar as a major player in the global honey market.
Key points
- Ilanga Nature is Madagascar's sole exporter of honey to the European Union and the United States.
- The company works directly with over 350 beekeepers, representing more than 4,500 beehives.
- Ilanga Nature aims to export at least 100 tons of honey this year.
