Bees for Business in Uganda with Banyankole Coffee Services: Project Update

Date: This project launched in February 2024.

Location: This project is taking place in Sheema district, Kabwohe, western Uganda.

Mission: This 12-month project, delivered in partnership with Banyankole Coffee Services (BCS), is supporting 210 coffee farmers to diversify into beekeeping, providing a vital second source of income through honey production.

Putting the project into context

Before launching the project, we conducted a survey with all 210 participants to understand their current situation.  

• On average, farmer’s incomes were £54 a month (which is 252,582 Ugandan Shillings or UGX).
• On average, seven people are financially dependent on each farmer involved in this project.
• 97% of farmers (203) reported their income as never enough to meet the needs of their household.

Constructing and distributing 1,050 beehives and live trees

Throughout March and April, 1,050 Kenya Top Bar beehives (KTB hives) were constructed locally and distributed to the 210 BCS farmers, each farmer receiving five hives. To support the hives, farmers also received ‘live stands’. These are live trees, specially cut to hold the hives at an optimal height off the ground and planted strategically among their coffee trees. 

Delivering training in beekeeping skills

In March, all farmers received theoretical and practical training in beekeeping skills. Training was led by an agronomist of BCS, a district entomologist, a local trainer and an experienced beekeeper. The training introduced farmers to beekeeping concepts, including:

• Hive placement
• Establishing bee-friendly environments
• The different types of bees
• The importance of bees for farmers
• The economic benefits of beekeeping

Delivering training in honey harvesting skills

Throughout July and August, the farmers received practical and theoretical training in honey harvesting skills. Topics covered included:

• How to understand the harvest seasons
• How to use tools and equipment correctly to ensure high quality honey
• How to remove honeycomb from wooden slats

Distribution of beekeeping tools and equipment

In July and August, following the training in honey harvest skills, the farmers were provided with tools and equipment. Each farmer received:

• Boots 
• Straining cloths
• A knife for removing honeycomb
• An airtight bucket and jug
• Bee suits
• Smokers
• Safety gloves

Feedback from Dan Kashurura, project participant

Project Participant Dan Kashurura is a member  of Banyankole Coffee Services and has been a coffee farmer for 15 years. Dan had always wanted to go into beekeeping, but never had the resources to start. Through this project, he has now received five modern beehives and is currently preparing for his first harvest of honey. 

Dan said: “At first, I was fearing bees, but after training, I was convinced I could be friends with them. After training, I got more knowledge and courage.” 

We will share more information about this project following its completion. 

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