Authors : Gidey Yirga and Kibrom Ftwi
Abstract: Beekeeping in Ethiopia plays an important role in income generation for beekeepers. A household survey was conducted to assess the potential of beekeeping for rural development and identify the major constraints of beekeepers in a village called Hangodo in Saese Tseada Enba distinct Tigray, northern Ethiopia. Data were collected through the use of semi structure interview with randomly selected 85 beekeepers representing 87.6% of the total beekeepers in the village. Modern honey production accounted 91% of the potential annual income representing $USD 27,623. The extent of adoption of modern bee hives was 75.3% which is much greater than the regional average of 31%. Majority (67%) of the respondents had modern beehive to enhance honey production and increase their income. The major beekeeping constraints were pests and predators, absconding, shortage of bee forage and drought. Despite all the constraints and challenges, there are enormous opportunities and potentials to boost the production and quality of honey products in the village. Enhancing bee forage plantation through introducing Multi-Purpose Trees (MPT) such as fruit crops is recommended.
Gidey Yirga and Kibrom Ftwi, 2010. Beekeeping for Rural Development: Its Potentiality and Constraints in Eastern Tigray, Northern Ethiopia. Agricultural Journal, 5: 201-204.