Revolutionizing Beekeeping: Astic Technology and Sustainable Practices
In the realm of beekeeping, where the delicate balance between honey production and environmental well-being is crucial, innovative technologies are taking center stage. Kyallo Mutua, the Director and Founder of Savannah Honey in Utawala, Nairobi, shared insights into their revolutionary beekeeping technology, Astic, and the sustainable practices they employ to address challenges posed by climate change.
Groundbreaking Beekeeping Technology: Astic
Addressing Bee Population Decline
Beekeeping, intertwined with maize, fruit, and horticulture farming, plays a pivotal role in supporting crop production through essential pollination by bees. However, climate change-induced factors such as deforestation and altered rain patterns have led to a decline in bee populations. To counter this, Savannah Honey introduced Astic, an advanced bee lure and a local innovation.
The Role of Astic
Astic has proven to be a reliable solution in mitigating the global decline in bee populations. In regions with high temperatures, where traditional hives faced challenges in colonization, Astic has demonstrated effectiveness. Unlike the conventional use of lemongrass oil, Astic provides a more dependable method for attracting bees to hives.
Sustainable Practices for Bee Population Growth
Wind-Centric Hive Installation
Savannah Honey goes beyond technological innovations by offering free hive installations for member farmers. The installation process considers wind direction, a critical factor influencing the deviation of bees from their routine paths. By aligning hives with the wind, the risk of bees drifting due to strong winds is minimized.
Colony Division for Population Management
For hives that experience delayed colonization, Savannah Honey employs colony division. This process involves analyzing the bee population within a hive. A strong hive typically hosts between 60,000-90,000 bees, and population analysis helps identify the need for colony strengthening. Factors such as the health of the queen, her egg-laying capacity, and hive dormancy are assessed to ensure optimal bee colony conditions.
Diversifying Bee Products for Sustainability
Lucrative Opportunities
Encouraging farmers to produce a variety of bee products proves to be economically viable. Bee products such as venom, wax, propolis, and royal jelly have significant market demand. Savannah Honey emphasizes the lucrative market for these products, highlighting their import demand in Kenya and the potential for substantial earnings.
Health Benefits of Bee Products
Beyond economic gains, the production of diverse bee products contributes to improved health outcomes. Bee pollen, for instance, is noted for its benefits in managing diabetes, inflammation, and skin rash. Bee venom, when combined with honey, offers relief to arthritis sufferers. Additionally, the collaboration with the Avocado Society of Kenya provides farmers with alternative means of livelihood while waiting for honey harvests.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Aspirations
Building Partnerships for Growth
Savannah Honey collaborates with organizations like the Youth Fund, GIZ, Kenya Farmers Association, and the Avocado Society of Kenya to support and empower beekeepers. These partnerships involve training, technical support, and marketing assistance to ensure the sustained growth of apiculture.
Challenges and Future Vision
Despite their efforts, challenges persist, including farmers selling products to exploitative brokers. Addressing this, Savannah Honey emphasizes the need for fair trade practices and increased adoption of apiculture. Looking ahead, Mutua envisions Savannah Honey as a household name across Africa, empowering families and communities out of poverty through beekeeping.
In the pursuit of sustainable beekeeping, Savannah Honey's Astic technology and holistic practices stand as a testament to the transformative power of innovation and environmental consciousness.
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