Delegates attending the 12th Conference of Parties to the Nairobi Convention (COP12) are getting more than environmental conservation discussions, with the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) showcasing beekeeping, bee products, apitherapy and forest tourism opportunities at its exhibition booth.
The TFS exhibition is part of activities running alongside the conference, offering delegates an opportunity to see how forest resources can support livelihoods while promoting sustainable conservation.
One of the key attractions at the booth is apitherapy, a service provided by TFS through its Beekeeping Officer, Ms Brenda Mwakipesile, from Vikindu Forest Reserve.
The booth also features a range of products made from bee products, giving delegates an opportunity to see, sample and purchase them at affordable prices.
Beyond beekeeping, TFS is using the exhibition to promote forest tourism, with delegates being offered opportunities to register for special visits to Pugu-Kazimzumbwi Forest Reserve and the Sahara Mangrove Boardwalk.
Speaking today, TFS Tourism Officer Diana Ruheta encouraged COP12 delegates to visit the booth and explore the services, products and tourism opportunities on offer.
“We welcome all delegates to visit our booth, see the different services and products available, and register for special offers to visit our tourism sites,” she said.
Ms Ruheta said delegates could also access tourism services digitally through the e-MisituApp, where they can select and pay for their preferred destination.
TFS Forest Officer and Coordinator, Ms Ritha Maganga, expressed that the agency’s participation aims to demonstrate the close link between forest conservation, beekeeping, forest-based products, livelihoods and sustainable tourism.
“For a delegate who wants to taste, buy, learn or experience Tanzania’s natural environment, the TFS booth offers more than a conservation message; it offers an opportunity to experience nature,” she said.