Lake region farmers to benefit after deal signed for modern beekeeping

LBDA Managing Director Wycliffe Ochiaga and The Hive Limited Chief Executive Officer Christopher Nzuki, after signing a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)/Faith Matete 

At least 600 farmers in the lake region will benefit from a new beekeeping project following the signing of a three-year MoU between the Lake Basin Development Authority and The Hive Limited.

LBDA managing director Wycliffe Ochiaga said the initiative aims to boost farmers’ incomes while promoting environmental conservation through modern beekeeping.

"As an organisation, we will provide 600 modern beehives to farmer groups and coordinate support from development partners,” Ochiaga said.

LBDA will invest Sh4 million in infrastructure and capacity building, and ensure a ready market through its refinery plant for crude honey and other bee products.

The project will start in Homa Bay county and expand to other counties in western Kenya and parts of the Rift Valley.

It also aligns with the government’s goal of growing 15 billion trees by 2032, including at least 30 per cent fruit trees, essential for beekeeping.

The Hive Limited CEO Christopher Nzuki said his company will provide technical expertise and hands-on training to ensure high-quality production.

Farmers will learn site selection, hive installation, and proper harvesting methods that minimise wastage and protect bee colonies.

The initiative will enable farmers to produce honey, pollen, propolis, royal jelly, wax, and bee venom—all with strong market demand.

Honey currently sells for between Sh350 and Sh500 per kilogram, pollen at about Sh2,800 per kilogram, and royal jelly up to Sh33,000 per kilogram.

Both LBDA and The Hive Limited will act as off-takers to guarantee a reliable market. The three-year partnership may be renewed based on its success and sustainability.

The project is expected to improve livelihoods, promote biodiversity, and enhance climate resilience through increased tree planting and sustainable farming practices.

Instant analysis

The new LBDA–Hive Limited beekeeping initiative is poised to transform livelihoods for at least 600 farmers in the Lake Victoria region. By providing modern hives, technical training, and guaranteed market access, the project addresses both economic and environmental objectives. It strengthens income generation through high-value bee products while promoting biodiversity and climate resilience via tree planting. Aligning with Kenya’s goal of 15 billion trees by 2032, the initiative also enhances sustainable farming practices. If successfully implemented, it could serve as a model for integrating agriculture, environmental conservation, and rural development across other counties, boosting both local economies and ecological sustainability.