Kenyan farmers have long appreciated the vital role that Beekeeping plays as an agricultural enterprise that not only contributes to additional income but also enhances crop quality and yields.
Over many years, farmers have relied on Beekeeping for extra income as well as to improve yield and soil fertility – but with COVID-19’s pandemic coming their way, new challenges had to be faced in adapting to shifting market conditions, supply chain disruptions, and new health and safety protocols in beekeeping sector.
Kenya National Farmers’ Federation (KENAFF) created the CORARB plan as part of their efforts to assist members in the beekeeping industry, specifically those living within counties such as Embu, Uasin Gishu, Taita Taveta Baringo, and Siaya.
By this means, KENAFF provided much-needed help and support to beekeepers across these five counties: Embu, Uasin Gishu Taita Taveta Baringo Siaya.
KENAFF provided 28 beehives, chain links, nails, and other materials to the Mwetheri Women Group of Embu County to increase beehive numbers while creating additional sources of income for these women.
Uasin Gishu was home to one of the KENAFF ambitious initiatives where 250 beehives were donated and distributed via rotation agreement to 41 farmer groups – increasing both beekeeping density in the county while also giving farmers additional sources of income.
In Taita Taveta, KENAFF purchased beehives and strengthened members’ capacity on apiculture. A total of 352 farmers benefitted from this endeavor by increasing beekeeping skills while simultaneously expanding honey production.
Bringo County received 19 Beehives donated by KENAFF. The federation distributed them among the Ex-Mackey Women Group, thus increasing the total number of beneficiaries to 24 and providing Ex-Mackey members with additional sources of income. This initiative helped expand beehives across Bringo and gave women additional means of supporting themselves financially.
In Siaya County, KENAFF supported Mbuye and Friends Women Group, increasing the number of beehives. The number of beneficiaries was 27. This initiative helped to increase the number of beehives in the county and provided the women with an additional source of income.
Through the Tajirika Na Beekeeping Project, KENAFF and Savannah Honey hope to offer free beekeeping training as well as technical support, helping farmers increase beekeeping skills, increase honey production, and build resilience against unexpected emergencies.
