Beekeepers in Siaya are set to benefit more through co-operatives, according to the county Bee Keeping Co-operative chairperson George Nyambara.
“Joining the co-operative society will enable the farmers not only find market but also negotiate for better prices for their honey. This will ensure they always get maximum returns from their work,” he said
Speaking in Bondo, Mr Nyambara said the Society is empowering beekeepers in the County by providing them with hives and equipment through loaning schemes. The County has 2,500 registered bee farmers affiliated with 21 groups.
“We have groups in West Sakwa, West Asembo, North Uyoma, East Yimbo, ,Ugunja and Sidindi totaling to 2,500 members. The County produces about 300 tonnes of honey annually,” he said.
Through the co-operative society, beekeepers are pushing to moderate the price of honey in the region to Sh600 per kilo.
“We have noted that a section of farmers is taking their products to the market on their own and selling at throw away prices. This causes variation in prices and negatively affects other farmers,” he noted.
The co-operative is sensitizing the public on beekeeping, honey harvesting, storage, marketing and the use of protective gear during harvesting. “We also marketing the honey byproducts such as soap, candle wax, and body creams to encourage more people to venture into apiculture as way of diversification.”
Mr Nyambara said they have partnered with Egerton University to train farmers, enabling them to overcome bee phobia and commercialize the venture. (Agencies).
