Staff Reporter
Government has joined hands with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to promote bee-keeping by the nation's young farmers.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy to empower young agriculturists through broadening their farming practices, connecting them to markets and, by so doing, ensuring that their livelihoods are sustainable in the long run.
A recent feature by Inter Press Services News (IPS) spotlighted FAO's active role in nurturing a new generation of bee-keepers in Chimanimani District of Manicaland Province.
The Chimanimani programme, which was rolled out in July 2023, has seen a group of eleven ambitious youths receiving comprehensive training in bee-keeping thus equipping them with the necessary skills to thrive in this niche yet burgeoning sector.
Patrice Talla, FAO Representative in Zimbabwe and the Subregional Coordinator, shed light on the long-term vision of this collaboration.
"Through the Green Jobs project initiated in 2001, we have successfully trained and supported 300 young individuals across select communities. Our goal is to bolster employment among the rural youth, secure food sources, alleviate poverty, and foster environmental stewardship," Talla explained.
Talla strongly advocated for apiculture as a viable avenue for young farmers, highlighting its resilience to harsh weather conditions and its overall contribution to economic stability.
In a discussion with this publication, economist Persistence Gwanyanya emphasised the importance of such diversification efforts, especially against the backdrop of Zimbabwe's challenging climate dynamics that included frequent floods and droughts.
"Venturing into bee-keeping is a strategic move to combat the unpredictability of our weather. It presents a sustainable alternative to conventional farming methods, ensuring both ecological and economic resilience," Gwanyanya remarked.
Gwanyanya further pointed out the upstream and downstream economic prospects of this initiative, especially the progress made towards adding value and creating by-products from honey.
"The development of a honey processing facility marks a crucial leap towards value addition. With honey-based products like toothpaste and floor polish, we are not just boosting incomes but also nurturing the growth of local enterprises," Gwanyanya added.
This collaborative endeavour between the Zimbabwean Government and international bodies like the FAO represents a significant stride in advancing agricultural sustainability and uplifting rural communities across Zimbabwe.
Through beekeeping, young farmers are not only securing their future but are also contributing to the broader goals of food security, poverty reduction, and environmental protection.
