Kabale Beekeepers Get Shs26.8M Equipment to Boost Honey Production

Beekeepers in Kabale District are set to significantly increase their honey output following a major equipment donation. The Butanga Karweru Beekeepers Group in Maziba Sub-county has been equipped with modern beekeeping gear valued at Shs26.8 million.

This vital support comes through the Uganda Climate Smart Agricultural Transformation Project (UCSATP), a government initiative focused on improving agricultural productivity, building resilience against climate change, and boosting household incomes.

The consignment, delivered by the Kabale District Local Government Production Department, includes 150 modern beehives, honey buckets, gumboots, bee brushes, hive tools, smokers, protective suits, and harvesting knives. Each of the 15 group members will receive 10 beehives and a full set of accompanying equipment.

Stanislaus Habutunga, Chairperson of the Butanga Karweru Beekeepers Group, expressed gratitude, noting that inadequate equipment previously hampered their production and harvesting efforts. He anticipates the new gear will lead to improved quality and quantity of honey, directly increasing members’ incomes.

Honest Tumuhirwe, Kabale District Senior Entomologist, highlighted that the UCSATP operates on a co-funding model, with beneficiaries contributing 20% and the government funding the remaining 80%. The group’s contribution amounted to Shs5,375,800, while the government provided Shs21,503,200.

Tumuhirwe encouraged the group to collaborate to maximize honey production and expand their membership to at least 20 individuals, which she stated would increase their eligibility for future government programs. Jennifer Tumwebaze, Kabale District Senior Fisheries Officer, urged members to maintain meticulous production and financial records for effective progress tracking and future planning.

Kabale District Production Officer Bedda Mwebesa reiterated the importance of proper equipment maintenance and accurate record-keeping, emphasizing that effective management would allow the district to monitor performance and facilitate access to further government support. He officially handed over the equipment, urging the beneficiaries to utilize the investment to enhance honey production and their overall livelihoods.

This initiative was reported by Nile Post.