In the heart of Algeria, one woman is redefining the way we think about nature, science, and business. Amira Affaf Bellil, co-founder of Propolina, is not only tapping into Algeria’s centuries-old beekeeping traditions but is also blending them with biotechnology to create sustainable health and wellness solutions.
A trained biotechnology pharmaceuticalsengineer with a Master’s degree from École Nationale Supérieure de Biotechnologie, Amira combines scientific rigor with entrepreneurial vision. Her company, Propolina, develops and markets innovative natural products derived from honey, propolis, pollen, royal jelly, and medicinal plants sourced from Algeria’s diverse ecosystems.
“Propolina is an Algerian company which develops and markets innovative natural products based on honey, propolis, pollen, royal jelly and local plants, offering health, well-being and nutrition solutions,” explains Amira.
For Amira, Propolina is more than just a business—it’s a platform for sustainable development and women’s empowerment. Algeria has a long history of beekeeping, but many small-scale producers struggle to connect their products to modern health markets. Through Propolina, Amira is bridging that gap, ensuring that the treasures of the hive are transformed into high-quality, accessible solutions that meet international standards.
Her work not only contributes to better health and nutrition but also supports local farmers and beekeepers, many of whom are women in rural communities. By promoting fair sourcing and eco-friendly production, Propolina is proving that sustainability and profitability can go hand in hand.
Amira’s innovation has earned her recognition as one of the Top 13 finalists in this year’s GoGettaz Agripreneur Prize, a prestigious pan-African competition that celebrates outstanding young entrepreneurs in agriculture and food systems. She is the first entrepreneur introduced in this year’s showcase.
Since 2019, GoGettaz has highlighted Africa’s brightest minds, but this year, the finalists were asked to share something new: their favorite inspiring quotes, the best (and worst) advice they’ve received, and the lessons they wish they had known when they started. For Amira, these reflections highlight the resilience and creativity that define African women entrepreneurs.
Women Leading Africa’s Green Economy
Across the continent, women play central roles in agriculture, food security, and healthcare innovation. Yet, they often face barriers to financing, visibility, and scaling their businesses. Amira’s success demonstrates what is possible when women scientists and entrepreneurs are given the opportunity to lead.
Her journey shows how African women are not just participating in agribusiness—they are transforming it. By leveraging both traditional knowledge and cutting-edge science, entrepreneurs like Amira are building solutions that serve local communities while
