Bee farmers unite to reform the honey industry

Bee farmers in Embu County have joined forces to launch a cooperative society aimed at revolutionizing the honey industry.

The Embu Bee Farmers Cooperative Society is set to not only increase honey production but also prioritize sustainability and environmental conservation.

“The cooperative brings together beekeepers from Embu and the neighboring counties, pooling their resources and expertise to address common challenges faced in the industry,” said Eric Mugendi, the chairman.

The cooperative society is headquartered at Kathageri market, along the Embu-Meru highway.

Mugendi said their collaborative effort would result in numerous benefits for both beekeepers and consumers.

By leveraging the collective experience of its members, the cooperative aims to improve beekeeping techniques, optimize hive management, and implement advanced technologies to increase overall efficiency.

“I am confident that we will increase the honey production. Besides, the cooperative is mandated to source the market for our honey and ensure that the quality is not compromised,” he said.

He added, “Through the cooperative, we will buy honey from farmers, pack and sell it under our brand name. We already have a machine to detect the fake honey.”

Currently, bee farmers in the county sell their honey locally at an average of Sh1,000 per kilo. Through the cooperative, they hope to expand into international markets.

Marcellino Kariuki, a veteran bee farmer from Kiaragana village of Runyenjes Constituency, encouraged farmers to join the cooperative as it could increase their bargaining power when negotiating with buyers and other stakeholders.

Kariuki said the collective strength allows farmers to secure better prices for their produce and obtain favorable terms for inputs.

“I encourage all bee farmers in the region to join the cooperative since together we can. Currently, we sell a kilo at Sh1,000. Through the society, I am sure we will hit at least Sh3,000 per kilo,” he thought.

Kariuki said every homestead can have at least two beehives for income diversification, noting that bee farming requires small space and less labor. To join the cooperative, a farmer requires a registration fee of Sh1,000.

Want to send us a story? Submit via

news@arisemediagroup.co.ke or call 0750456085

Book Advert-use above contacts