Apicultural Knowledge for Ecological Sustainability, Food Security and Economic Empowerment: A Case of Kajiado County, Kenya

Abstract

Kajiado County, located in Kenya, faces interconnected challenges of ecological sustainability, food security, and economic empowerment. Amidst these challenges, beekeeping has emerged as a promising solution with the potential to address these multifaceted issues. This study examined the apiculture knowledge in Kajiado County, Kenya, for ecological sustainability, food security, and economic empowerment. The research utilized a mixed-method approach to collect data from beekeepers. The data collection methods used were observations, interviews, and focus group discussions. Data was analyzed using summary statistics and presented in the form of percentages and descriptions. The study revealed that the main motivation for beekeeping for all farmers was honey production while 30% kept bees for cultural practices and medicinal purposes. Beekeepers faced a myriad of challenges which ranged from negative attitudes towards beekeeping by young people at 10% to dry climatic conditions at 100%. Other major challenges included swarming of bees at 75% and attacks by pests and rodents at 83%. These problems were solved by providing water to the bees which was practiced by 100% of the beekeepers, removal of pests manually at 75%, and use of special indigenous trees to make hives with cooler temperatures. As an alternative source of livelihood in the ASALs being championed by the County governments since it is less affected by the adverse effects of climate change, the uptake of apicultural practices is still low in Kajiado largely due to a strong attachment to pastoralism. The apicultural practices in Kajiado County are largely small-scale and traditional with insignificant modernization. However, its practice has led to the management and conservation of some shrubs and trees, hence biodiversity conservation. The study recommends that traditional beekeepers be supported through the provision of relevant knowledge of beekeeping and modern equipment in order to increase both the quantity and quality of honey production for enhanced food security, economic empowerment and ecological sustainability.