agriculture 14 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda's Honey Production Surges to 210,000 Metric Tonnes Annually
Uganda now produces 210,000 metric tonnes of honey per year, a massive jump from 4,000 tonnes in 2023, with 1.2 million people engaged in beekeeping. The country exports 80,000 tonnes of honey and is hosting a major international symposium to boost the sector. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-produces-210-000-metric-tonmes-of-honey-report-5391014
Uganda has achieved remarkable growth in its honey production, reaching 210,000 metric tonnes annually. This represents a huge leap from the 4,000 metric tonnes recorded in 2023, involving around 1.2 million beekeepers nationwide.
Exports stand at 80,000 metric tonnes of honey, while beeswax exports hit 1,500 metric tonnes, generating USD 10.5 million. The country boasts an estimated 16 million bee colonies.
Government efforts have fueled this expansion. State Minister for Agriculture Bright Rwamitama, represented by Dr. Anna Rose Ademun Okurut, highlighted initiatives like recruiting entomologists across local governments, integrating beekeepers into the Parish Development Model (PDM), and partnering with the private sector.
These steps aim to enhance extension services, raise awareness on apiculture’s benefits for incomes, ecology, jobs, and biodiversity, especially for youth and women.
Kampala will host the fourth Africa-Apimondia Symposium from August 25-28, 2026, gathering experts to share advancements in beekeeping, apitherapy, and more. Dr. Dickson Biryomumaisho of TUNADO emphasized showcasing Uganda’s bee products to attract investment and highlight their GDP contribution.