Kilifi beekeepers stare at job losses as prolonged drought bites
By Farhiya Hussein |
Fondo requested financial support, stating that with adequate support and proper equipment, they could produce up to 300 litres of honey per month
Beekeepers in Sokoke Ward in Ganze, Kilifi County, are facing an existential crisis as a severe drought, now in its third year, threatens to end their livelihoods.
Led by Sam Fondo, the beekeepers have struggled to maintain their hives as water scarcity decimates the bee population.
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"We have experienced drought for over three years, and it has severely impacted our beekeeping business. Many bees have fled the hives despite our efforts to trap them," Fondo explained the gravity of the situation.
He added that the remote areas along the Arabuko Sokoke National Forest are renowned for producing some of the best honey in the country.
Fondo requested financial support, stating that with adequate support and proper equipment, they could produce up to 300 litres of honey per month.
However, he stressed that the current market price of Sh600 per litre needs to be increased to Sh1,000 or more to sustain the business.
"The price of honey must rise if we are to continue (doing business)," he proposed.
A photo of packaged honey. Remote areas along the Arabuko Sokoke National Forest are renowned for producing some of the best honey in the country. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
Prisilar Nyevu, another beekeeper, called on the Kilifi County government to further empower the farmers.
"We need modern equipment to harvest honey efficiently," Nyevu said, emphasising the necessity for governmental support.
In response, Thaura Mweni, the representative of Sokoke Ward, said that the county government has allocated Sh1 million to purchase tanks and other essential equipment for the beekeepers.
Mweni reiterated the county's commitment to supporting farmers and encouraged them to plant more flowering trees to attract bees.
He also urged the beekeepers to form a cooperative to benefit from the Wezesha Fund, which supports various business groups within the county.
"By organising into a cooperative, you can access additional funding and resources to help your businesses thrive," he added.
Beekeepers at their farms in Sokoke Ward, Ganze Kilifi County, on Wednesday, August 7, 2024. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)Reader comments
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