Protecting pollinators to strengthen Ethiopian agriculture

We are pleased to support Birhanu Fentahun, an MSc student at the University of Gondar, Ethiopia, whose research focuses on insect ecology, pest management, and pollinator conservation.

In 2025, with support from Bees for Development, Birhanu began his MSc research project in Fogera District, South Gondar Zone, investigating how different pest management practices affect the diversity and abundance of pollinating insects, with particular emphasis on solitary bees.

Birhanu collecting bees in Hawassa

Why pollinators matter for Ethiopia’s agriculture

Pollinators are essential for food security, biodiversity and agricultural productivity in Ethiopia. Many crops depend on insect pollination, yet pollinators are threatened by pesticide overuse, habitat loss, and climate change. We must protect our nation’s pollinating insects to improve crop yields, underpin resilient agro-ecosystems and to contribute to environmental sustainability and rural livelihoods. Scientific research is essential to inform policy and practice.

Research methods

I am comparing the abundance and diversity of bees under different management systems using field sampling methods including pan traps and sweep nets. As well as counting abundance I am pinning the insects I collect in order to identify them – at least to genus level, and to species level if possible. The goal is to generate evidence that supports pollinator-friendly pest management practices in the district.

Building field skills

In October 2025 I was fortunate to join a field trip to Hawassa. With support from Ciaran Clark from Bees for Development and Dr. Zerihun Girma of University of Hawassa I learned about insect sampling, identification, and ecological assessment techniques. We visited agricultural and natural landscapes to observe insect diversity. The trip strengthened my practical skills in field data collection, preservation, pinning, teamwork, and applying ecological concepts to real agricultural challenges.

Ciaran Clark, Birhanu Fentahun and Dr. Adane identifying solitary bees

Halictid bee

Regional learning in Uganda

After Hawassa I went to Uganda to visit the Bee Diversity Informatics project of Makerere University. Here we visited farming communities practicing pollinator-friendly management. I learned about integrated pest management, habitat conservation, and the role of policy and community engagement in protecting pollinators. The experience broadened my regional perspective and showed how research can directly support farmers’ livelihoods.

Future goals

After completing my MSc, I plan to work as a researcher and development professional in plant protection and pollinator conservation. I aim to contribute to research institutions, NGOs, or development projects focused on climate-smart pest management, sustainable agriculture and biodiversity. In the long term, I hope to pursue further studies and support evidence-based policies that promote environmentally-friendly pest management and pollinator conservation in Ethiopia.

I am glad to benefit from this research opportunity with Bees for Development and I thank them for their inspiration and support.

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Stingless bee