The newly established Palawani Beekeeping Training Center in Zvishavane is set to unlock significant economic value by providing employment and enhancing the skills of youths and small-scale bee farmers in the region, as well as parts of Matabeleland South province. The initiative is expected to benefit more than 200 farmers, contributing to rural development and aligning with the government’s Vision 2030 goals.
The center, spearheaded by private players in response to the government’s call for increased private sector participation in rural development, aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices. Through hands-on training, it will equip local farmers with essential beekeeping skills, enabling them to increase productivity and tap into lucrative export markets.
Speaking at a recent event, Munyaradzi Hwengwere, Chairman of Palawani Lakeworld Resort, emphasized Zimbabwe’s unique natural resources, noting the country’s vast water bodies and organic produce, which are increasingly sought after in international markets.
“Through our engagement with ZimTrade, we have identified honey from Zimbabwe as a highly exportable commodity. This center will serve as a hub for our communities to collaborate with us, increasing productivity and targeting export markets,” Hwengwere said.
The initiative is poised to transform beekeeping into a viable commercial venture for small-scale farmers, enhancing their livelihoods while also promoting environmental sustainability. Welcome Bhila, Chief Technical Director at Bees Honey Company, highlighted the often-overlooked role of beekeeping in Zimbabwe’s agricultural economy.
“Bees are crucial not just for livelihoods but for the environment as well. With climate change and environmental conservation being global concerns, we are incentivizing communities to embrace beekeeping, which supports both biodiversity and sustainable agriculture,” Bhila noted.
Globally, bee populations face challenges from habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. However, Zimbabwe’s beekeeping sector presents an opportunity for rural communities to engage in sustainable practices that address these environmental issues while contributing to economic growth.
As part of the effort to conserve Zimbabwe’s bee species and promote pollination, the Palawani Beekeeping Training Center will focus on modern beekeeping techniques, enhancing the quality of honey produced while ensuring ecological balance.
This project marks a significant step toward achieving Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 by fostering rural entrepreneurship, creating employment opportunities, and supporting agricultural development in underserved areas.
