Uganda
How are the bees
The richness and diversity of Uganda’s vegetation – both natural and agricultural – provide ideal habitat for honey bees. Species such as Shea nut, acacia trees, coffee and Eucalyptus are important bee plants. The bees are free from disease and productive swarmers, meaning that carefully sited bee hives are readily occupied with ‘free’ bees. Honey flows are highly localised and local knowledge underpins all successful beekeeping in Uganda.
How are the people?
Uganda is a young and rising nation. It has one of the lowest median ages and highest birth rates worldwide. Poverty rates have almost halved since the early 90s, but for every 3 Ugandans who escape poverty, 2 fall back in. Covid-19, the locust invasion and the floods of 2020 have had devastating consequences on fragile livelihoods – the World Bank estimates a further 3 million risk falling behind as a result. Testament to the generosity and solidarity of its people, Uganda is also the largest refugee host in Africa (cc. 1.4 million).
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People with Disabilities now benefitting from the beekeeping sector in Uganda
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1708, 2026
Why University Beekeeping Education Matters
Meet Edwin Beekeeping goes beyond just collecting honey. It plays an important role in supporting people's livelihoods, preserving forests, ensuring the pollination of crops, and creating business opportunities throughout the honey industry. At Mzuzu University, I teach Apiculture to students studying forestry. My job involves both classroom instruction and hands-on fieldwork, helping students gain the skills needed to start careers and businesses in Malawi's growing honey industry. Learning Beyond the Classroom The course includes topics like bee biology, managing beehives, dealing with pests and diseases, harvesting and processing honey, ensuring quality,
