Project overview:
Agrïa, which pertains to the Real Estate and Agribusiness segment of Rogers, launched a five-year apiculture initiative. The project involves setting up 100 beehives on its private estate in Case Noyale Ltd, situated on the West Coast of Mauritius. The objective of the project is to enhance biodiversity, achieve self-sufficiency in honey production, promote local products, and establish short food supply chains. The project aims to produce 100% organic and locally sourced honey, with the first harvest expected by the end of 2023.
Case Noyale was chosen for the apiculture project due to its diverse flora, which includes eucalyptus, logwood, pink pepper, and Tamarind trees. This makes it an ideal habitat for bees that are losing their habitats. As primary pollinators, bees facilitate cross-pollination, resulting in a more abundant and diverse yield of fruits and vegetables. Approximately 80% of the world's crops require pollinators such as bees to produce fruit, making bees essential for food production and security. Additionally, since they are at the bottom of the food chain, bees are vital for the survival of many species.
This project is being driven by an experienced operator, Etienne de Senneville, who has been operating in the region for over a decade. Some locals have formed to take care of the bees, considered ecosystem sentinels. The bees' health and well-being are prioritized, and the project ensures they have enough resources and healthy habitat to thrive.
Mauritius produces approximately 25 tons of honey yearly, while its annual consumption is 340 tons. It is difficult to meet the demand since there is not enough forest land. The project will thus increase honey production, ensuring a continuous supply to the Group’s business units in Bel Ombre. Moreover, the idea is to make it a trademark for sale in key locations, including Terre des 7 Couleurs and the hotel boutiques to begin with. It will be available at several outlets, including the hotels and restaurants of the Rogers Group.
Our strategy
At Rogers, we are committed to making a meaningful change in the world. The apiculture project undertaken by Agrïa is aligned with the Group's focus on the importance of biodiversity and its preservation. The project's sustainable approach to honey production involves ensuring that the bees have access to healthy habitats and food sources, protecting their health and well-being while promoting sustainable production practices.
The local community's participation promotes a sense of ownership and responsibility towards preserving the region's biodiversity. The honey will be 100% organic and locally produced, contributing to the local economy while promoting sustainable practices and preserving the region's biodiversity.
Tracking progress:
Half of the total number of beehives that were targeted for installation on the private estate of Agrïa in Case Noyale have been installed as of mid-April 2023.
Over the long term, the project will monitor honey production, the bee population, and the impact on the local flora.