The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture Eswatini has successfully concluded a five-day capacity building workshop for veterinary and livestock extension officers on honeybee farming and apiculture management.
The training is aimed at strengthening extension services and accelerating the sustainable growth of the beekeeping sector.
Beekeeping plays a pivotal role in rural livelihoods, contributing to honey production, crop pollination, biodiversity conservation and income diversification.
Despite its significant potential as a climate-resilient enterprise, many smallholder farmers face constraints due to limited technical expertise and extension support. This workshop directly addressed these challenges by improving the capabilities of frontline officers serving all four regions of the kingdom.
“The beekeeping sector is a vital pillar for rural development and environmental sustainability in Eswatini,” stated Dr Thembi Ndlangamandla, National Apiculture Focal Point. “Equipping our extension officers with advanced apiculture skills represents a strategic investment in resilient and profitable enterprises that will benefit farming communities for generations.”
The workshop covered key technical areas, including honeybee farming and colony management, apiary establishment and best management practices, honeybee biology and behaviour, data collection and reporting, pest and disease control, harvesting and value addition of hive products, as well as enhanced extension methodologies.
Dr Ndlangamandla further noted, “This training has empowered extension officers to effectively guide smallholder farmers in constructing and managing their own beehives, thereby boosting production, securing livelihoods and improving quality of life across rural communities.”
The initiative forms part of FAO’s ongoing support for climate-smart agriculture and value-chain development.
“Robust extension services are essential to unlocking the full potential of apiculture – from improved crop pollination and diversified incomes to stronger rural economies,” added Selby Mduduzi Nyawo, Livestock Officer, Ministry of Agriculture.
With newly-acquired expertise, extension officers are well-positioned to drive nationwide growth in the sector, building on national efforts to promote bee-friendly indigenous flora and dedicated apiculture hubs.
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