Kisoro Beekeepers Raise Alarm Over Pesticides Threatening Honey Production

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KISORO – Beekeepers in Kisoro district, united under the banner of the Kisoro Beekeepers Cooperative, or KIBEKO, have expressed their growing concerns regarding the escalating use of pesticides on agricultural farms.

They fear that these chemicals are causing harm to bees and, consequently, adversely affecting honey production.

This apprehension was brought to light during an orientation meeting held yesterday in Kisoro municipality. The event was organized in collaboration with the Uganda National Apiculture Development Organisation (TUNADO) in conjunction with World of Bees and Turning Opportunities into Dreams (TRIAS) at the Bam Rest Hotel.

According to the beekeepers, Kisoro district has the potential to lead in honey production, but this potential is undermined as bees perish after visiting gardens treated with pesticides. They also cited additional challenges, including theft of beehives and hive shelters, honey theft, limited market access, and the presence of red ants that pose a threat to bees.

In response to these issues, some beekeepers called for comprehensive training and the establishment of information centers to help them become experts in honey production and apiculture.

CUE IN BEEKEEPERS……ON CHALLENGES……..RR//

Abel Bizimana, the Chairman of Kisoro district LCV, urged beekeepers’ cooperatives to unite and present their demands to the government. He emphasized the need for regulations on pesticide usage to promote the development of both agriculture and apiculture. Bizimana also called upon non-governmental organizations specializing in apiculture to conduct research and report to district councils about the specific pesticides jeopardizing beekeeping. This information would be vital in petitioning relevant authorities for a solution.

CUE IN BIZIMANA…..ON PETITION……RR/ENG//

Aaron Bomujuni, an officer from the Uganda National Apiculture Development Organisation (TUNADO), appealed to beekeepers to compile a list of pesticides that pose a threat to beekeeping. He stressed that bees play a crucial role in production through pollination, and their decline would limit production.

CUE IN BOMUJUNI……ON PESTICIDES…….RR//

Meanwhile, the beekeepers found motivation in the programs manager of TUNADO, Birungyi Phiona, who encouraged them to embrace their occupation and aspire to become champions in beekeeping. She also launched the Apiculture Business Fund from the World of Bees organization, aimed at supporting beekeeping champions and enhancing the capacity of beekeepers in the district.

CUE IN BIRUNGYI…..ON CAPACITY…….RR//