350 Homa Bay Beekeepers Trained as Honey Industry Gets Major Boost

By Margaret Naishorua

More than 350 beekeeping farmers from Kasipul Kabondo in Homa Bay County have completed a two-day intensive training programme aimed at enhancing honey production, improving environmental conservation, and expanding market opportunities for local producers.

The training, organized by the Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) in partnership with the Wire Forest Management Association and Hive Limited, follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) last month to strengthen the region's beekeeping value chain.

Speaking after the training, LBDA Managing Director Wycliffe Ochiaga said the initiative was designed to equip farmers with modern beekeeping skills that will increase both the quality and quantity of honey produced.

"It has been a two-day training and we have trained more than 350 farmers, directly benefiting over 350 households. The farmers have been trained on apiary settings and honey production," said Ochiaga.

According to Ochiaga, participants received practical training on hive management, bee farming techniques, and the beekeeping calendar to help them effectively manage their apiaries throughout the year and maximize yields.

Beyond boosting honey production, the programme also emphasized environmental conservation, highlighting the critical role a healthy ecosystem plays in successful beekeeping.

"As we encourage beekeeping, we are also encouraging farmers to plant trees, especially fruit trees, and conserve streams because bee farming relies heavily on a healthy environment," he said.

Ochiaga further revealed that LBDA has established a honey refinery in Ndhiwa, assuring farmers of a reliable market for their produce and creating opportunities for increased income generation.

Wire Forest Management Association Chairman Crispin Osunga noted that the training focused heavily on hive management, a key factor in improving productivity.

"This training mainly focused on hive management, which will help farmers attain maximum honey yields per hive," said Osunga.

The initiative is expected to strengthen the beekeeping sector in Homa Bay County by improving production standards, promoting environmental stewardship, and linking farmers to sustainable markets, ultimately enhancing livelihoods across the region.