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Beekeeping Boosts Livelihoods and Conserves Environment in Rumphi and Mzimba
According to the National Charcoal Strategy 2017-2027, over 97% of households in Malawi rely on charcoal for cooking and heating.
Malawi: Communities in Rumphi and Mzimba Districts in Malawi have switched from illegal and unsustainable charcoal production to beekeeping as a means of conserving the environment and diversifying their income, writes Susan Moyo.
The transition was made possible by the A+ project, implemented by the CADECOM of Mzuzu Diocese with support from Caritas Australia, which focuses on food security, environmental management, and beekeeping, among other objectives.
According to the National Charcoal Strategy 2017-2027, over 97% of households in Malawi rely on charcoal for cooking and heating.
The charcoal business supports the livelihoods of many in both rural and urban areas but has also contributed to deforestation and the effects of climate change.
Henry Simkonda, the Zone Manager for CADECOM Sub Office in Rumphi district, said the project has trained communities in beekeeping as a way to protect the environment and diversify their income.
The A+ project has also distributed 764 livestock to farmers and trained them in value addition and business management, reducing the number of people involved in charcoal production.
Additionally, communities in the districts have been trained in the use of energy-saving stoves and the planting of cachia and pine trees, which has reduced the number of trees cut down.
Beekeeper Stanly Mazaza Mhango from Sekelerani Beekeeping Club said that beekeeping provides more income to their families than charcoal production.
Another beekeeper, Tionge Banda, said she has been able to buy pigs, cattle, and farm inputs and pay for her children's school fees with the proceeds from beekeeping.
Benson Nkhata, who used to be a tobacco farmer, switched to beekeeping and said he is realizing considerable profits.
Environmental activist Mathews Malata commended the A+ project for training farmers in beekeeping.
The A+ project, with financial support from Caritas Australia, is focused on food security, gender and child protection, environmental management, water hygiene, sanitation, and beekeeping.