Success is Sweet for Yemeni Beekeepers

In Yemen, beekeeping has been a cherished tradition for generations, providing a vital source of income for around 100,000 beekeepers. The country’s honey, especially the highly prized Sidr honey, is renowned for its unique flavors and medicinal properties. Despite the high quality and global demand, this tradition faces significant threats from ongoing conflict and climate change. However, a wave of hope is sweeping through Yemen, thanks to initiatives like the UNDP Yemen’s ERRY III Joint Programme, co-funded by the EU and Sweden.

Reviving a Tradition The UNDP Yemen’s ERRY III Joint Programme aims to revitalize beekeeping in Yemen, providing technical and financial support to beekeepers. This initiative not only helps in preserving a cultural heritage but also empowers communities by creating sustainable livelihoods.

Stories of Resilience and Hope Meet Yahya Al-Harasi, a 39-year-old father from Al Mahwit Governorate. Struggling to support his family with construction work, Yahya turned to beekeeping five years ago. Despite initial success, a severe drought forced him back to construction. Fortunately, through the UNDP initiative, Yahya received business management training and financial support, allowing him to restart his beekeeping venture. He now anticipates a significant honey harvest, providing much-needed stability for his family.

Similarly, Khaldoun’s life was upended by war in 2015, forcing him to flee his home in Aden. Resettling in rural Taiz, he found solace and hope in beekeeping. With support from the ERRY III Joint Programme, Khaldoun received training and financial aid, enabling him to establish a thriving beekeeping business with over 20 hives. This new venture has transformed his life, providing a reliable income and renewed hope.

In Lahj Governorate, 23-year-old university student Hassan Al-Yemeni turned his hobby of beekeeping into a profitable business. Facing financial challenges, Hassan received training and a grant from the UNDP initiative, which helped him expand his beekeeping operations. His dedication and hard work paid off, and he now plans to harvest the famous Sidr honey, which promises a significant income boost.

Impact and Future Prospects The success of these beekeepers highlights the potential of beekeeping to foster economic growth and stability in Yemen. By providing training, financial support, and resources, the ERRY III Joint Programme is empowering Yemeni beekeepers to overcome challenges and build sustainable businesses.

Conclusion The stories of Yahya, Khaldoun, and Hassan demonstrate the resilience and determination of Yemeni beekeepers. With continued support from initiatives like the UNDP Yemen’s ERRY III Joint Programme, the tradition of beekeeping can thrive, providing a sweet path to success and stability for many Yemeni families.

FAQs

What is the significance of beekeeping in Yemen? Beekeeping is a traditional livelihood in Yemen, supporting about 100,000 beekeepers. Yemeni honey, especially Sidr honey, is renowned for its unique flavors and medicinal properties.
How has conflict and climate change affected Yemeni beekeepers? Conflict and climate change have threatened the beekeeping industry, leading to reduced honey production and financial instability for beekeepers.
What support is available for Yemeni beekeepers? The UNDP Yemen’s ERRY III Joint Programme, co-funded by the EU and Sweden, provides technical and financial support to help beekeepers revive their businesses and improve their livelihoods.
Who are some of the beneficiaries of these support programs? Beneficiaries include Yahya Al-Harasi, who transitioned from construction work to beekeeping, Khaldoun, who rebuilt his life through beekeeping after being displaced by war, and Hassan Al-Yemeni, a young university student turning his hobby into a successful business.
What impact do these programs have on the beekeepers? These programs provide training, financial grants, and support to help beekeepers expand their operations, improve production, and secure a stable income, thereby fostering resilience and self-reliance.

#YemeniBeekeepers #HoneyProduction #SustainableLivelihoods #ClimateAction #CommunityEmpowerment