Reported By Doose Johanna Hannu
An apiculture training took place on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at the Beekeeping Extension Resource Center in Zamfarawa, Zaria, Kaduna State.
Climate and Sustainable Development Network (CSDevNet), in collaboration with Climate Alaramma Sustainable Development Initiative, organized this training to promote smallholder beekeeping among women and youth in the community, with support from the African Action for Climate Justice Project (AACJ).
CSDevNet has consistently engaged grassroots communities in climate adaptation and best practices to combat climate change. In Kaduna State, where agriculture is a primary livelihood, integrating apiculture can diversify income sources, enhance food security, and contribute to environmental sustainability.
This activity addressed these issues by empowering communities with the skills to engage in beekeeping, thereby promoting biodiversity and supporting agricultural productivity.
Mr. Paul Gwumapan Joseph, Programme Officer at CSDevNet, delivered the opening remarks, extending heartfelt appreciation to the local community and the Beekeeping Resource Center for their unwavering support.
He acknowledged the critical role these stakeholders play in empowering rural women to sustain their livelihoods through sustainable beekeeping practices.
Mr. Joseph emphasized the importance of the training, encouraging participants to fully embrace the opportunity to learn and apply the knowledge they acquire.
He urged the attendees to make the most of the resources provided, not only to enhance their livelihoods but also to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development in their communities.
Mal. Idris Mohammed, the Executive Director of the Beekeeping Resource Center, provided an insightful overview of the center’s history and mission. He proudly highlighted the center’s status as the only dedicated beekeeping resource hub in West Africa, a prestigious achievement made possible through sponsorship from the UN 1% for Development Fund.
Mal. Mohammed stressed the significance of beekeeping as a sustainable and impactful livelihood, underlining the importance of transferring this knowledge to empower communities and drive sustainable development across the region.” He added.
The training aimed to empower communities in Kaduna State by promoting smallholder beekeeping, training 100 individuals, primarily women in sustainable apiculture practices to enhance their economic status and conserve biodiversity.
The interactive session provided step-by-step guidance on bee farming, including demonstrations on using protective gear. This was followed by a field visit to Ahmadu Bello University, where participants gained practical experience at the beehives, learning to set up and manage hives and harvest honey.
Participants expressed enthusiasm and committed to applying their new skills for community development.
In conclusion, the training in Kaduna State has empowered 100 participants, mainly women, with valuable beekeeping skills.
This initiative has provided them with a new source of income while promoting environmental conservation. The enthusiasm shown by the participants suggests that they will use their new knowledge to strengthen their communities and support sustainable development in the region.