Assessment of Beekeeping System, Constraints and Opportunities in Selected Districts of West Hararghe Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia

Abstract

The study was conducted  two districts (Daro Labu & Gemmachis) of western Hararghe Zone with the objective of identifying beekeeping production systems and constraints in the area. For this study 6 Peasant Associations (PAs) were selected on the bases of beekeeping potential. 90 beekeepers were interviewed using pre tested semi-structured questionnaires and PRA were also used for 55 non-beekeepers. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 13. In the survey area among the beekeepers interviewed almost all farmer posses different types of traditional hive where only 26.7% and 2.22% owned modern box hive and transitional hive respectively. About 96.67% of the respondents categorize their colonies based on body size, color, swarming rate, honey production and ability to enemy protection. 80% of the interviewed farmers prefer “Red” and “Shumbure” colored bees.  The beekeepers have good knowledge in colony management – feeding, watering and pest and predator caring. In all surveyed areas, honey harvested once a year from end of September to November (main honey flow)  and some times April to May (minor honey flow). The average honey yield from traditional, transitional & box hive per harvest were 6.4 ± 2.63, 8 ± 2.83 and 13.9 ± 4.04 kg respectively. There are different kinds of bee pests and predators in the area as small ant, birds, wax moth and others. 92.23% of respondent stated that as the trend of beekeeping is decreasing due to a number of factors. In our survey major beekeeping constraints in the area were also identified as lack of extension services, lack of improved beekeeping technologies, lack of man power, Lack better performer line, lack of bee forage.  From this study it was realized that, there is potential of beekeeping in the zone but the production system still under traditional way where it needs further intervention of NGOs, Conservers, Researchers and private organizations to improve production system and exploit resource from this sub sector.

Keywords: honeybees, beekeepers, production system, constraints, west Hararghe

DOI: 10.7176/ISDE/14-1-01

Publication date: January 31^st 2024