Packaging Design for Artisanal Honey Producers in Borno State: Improving Market Competitiveness

Honey production in Borno State, North East Nigeria, supports the livelihoods of hundreds of smallholder beekeepers, yet the marketability of their products is significantly hampered by poor packaging quality and inconsistent branding. This project investigates the design of improved packaging solutions for artisanal honey producers operating in the Gwoza and Konduga local government areas. Existing packaging consists predominantly of repurposed plastic bottles and unmarked sachets that convey low product quality and fail to meet regulatory standards set by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control. Through interviews with twenty-two honey producers and retail observation in Maiduguri markets, this study identifies key packaging requirements including tamper resistance, moisture protection, labelling legibility, and visual differentiation on crowded shelves. Four packaging prototypes were developed using locally sourced glass jars, biodegradable labels, and wax-sealed lids. Brand identity elements were co-created with producers, incorporating Kanuri geometric patterns and regional colour associations. Consumer testing with sixty retail buyers confirmed that rebranded prototypes were perceived as significantly higher in quality and value compared to existing packaging. A cost-benefit analysis demonstrates a projected price premium increase of thirty-five percent achievable through improved packaging alone. The project recommends a cooperative packaging initiative supported by Borno State's Ministry of Commerce. This work underscores the strategic role of industrial design in enhancing agricultural value chains within conflict-affected economies. Keywords: packaging design, honey production, Borno State, branding, artisanal producers.