Deborah Nzarubara, chief executive of Goma-based Grecom RDC, has developed a digital platform aimed at improving the international competitiveness of Congolese honey exports by helping beekeepers meet traceability and certification standards.

The platform, called Nyuki Tech, geolocates beekeepers, fields and hives, monitors production practices and tracks honey through the supply chain. It was developed to address one of the main obstacles limiting the access of Congolese honey to international markets.

Speaking on the sidelines of World Bee Day, marked on May 20, Nzarubara told the Congolese Press Agency (ACP) that many producers in Congo still struggle to meet international export requirements.

“International standards for honey are very rigorous. We still have a quality problem because traceability remains limited and certification is not yet recognized,” she said.

5,000 beekeepers targeted

Grecom says Nyuki Tech is already operating in several parts of eastern Congo. The web and mobile platform also includes offline features designed for areas with limited internet connectivity.

Beyond traceability, the company presents the technology as a tool to modernize the beekeeping value chain. According to Grecom, the platform includes an Internet of Things ecosystem capable of collecting real-time data to improve hive placement, colony monitoring, and honey marketing operations.

Nzarubara has led Grecom since 2019. The company produces and markets beekeeping and agricultural products while also developing technology solutions focused on sustainable agriculture and green entrepreneurship. Grecom says it has completed more than 120 missions and worked with over 50 local and international partners across the country.

The project has also received support from the YouthADAPT program, backed in part by the African Development Bank. Nzarubara said the platform was recognized at COP28 for helping reduce colony collapses and contributing to climate adaptation efforts.

Described as an expert in regenerative beekeeping and a recipient of the YouthADAPT Climate program award, Nzarubara said she aims to support at least 5,000 small-scale beekeepers this year. She said beekeeping could become a strategic sector for economic diversification in Congo because of its potential impact on employment, sustainable agriculture and biodiversity conservation.

Nzarubara is also calling for a national beekeeping policy that would establish a legal framework for the sector, improve financing for producers, strengthen technical training and support research. For Grecom, modernizing the industry and adopting digital tools are essential for Congolese honey to better meet international market standards.

Boaz Kabeya