Sweet success: Lulu's bee business buzzing
BONGI Bees was founded in 2017 by the unstoppable 58-year-old Lulu Letlape.
More than just a honey business, the farm is a symbol of resilience, empowerment, and a deep connection to nature.
As a proudly black woman-owned enterprise, Bongi Bees is part of a growing movement of bee guardians who ensure the survival of these vital pollinators, produce golden honey, and create jobs that sweeten the community.
Currently, the bee farm employs six permanent staff members and two casuals, and Lulu is training local women to become beekeepers on her farm in Rietfontein, Rayton in Tshwane.
Lulu’s journey with bees is deeply personal. After being struck by a debilitating autoimmune disease, largely brought on by stress, she was forced to make radical changes in her life and environment to restore balance.
She chose a holistic approach to heal her illness. That’s when she discovered raw honey. The natural wonder had a surprisingly positive effect on her immune system, helping it stay strong and resilient.
This spark set her on the path to becoming a beekeeper, reigniting her zest for life. Locals know Lulu as the go-to person when it comes to bees. When a swarm causes a buzz in their homes, they don’t hesitate to call her.
Whether it’s rescuing a queen or carefully coaxing worker bees into a new hive, Lulu fearlessly takes on the delicate task, ensuring these little wonders continue their important work.
The name Bongi Bees carries a special meaning. Bongi, a Zulu word derived from Bonga, meaning be thankful, is Lulu’s heartfelt tribute to the bees.
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It’s a beautiful way to honour these humble insects, not only for the honey they provide but also for their role in her healing journey and environmental efforts.
Motlatjo Makaepea, chief director of the Agro-Processing and Economic Unit at the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, explained to Daily Sun that honeybees are vital for the ecosystem.
"They pollinate plants, ensuring that we achieve the desired yields. Without bees, we wouldn't have the necessary harvests to sustain food production and food security, as they pollinate nearly 80% of plants. Therefore, bee farming plays a critical role in conservation," Makaepea said.
He also highlighted the department's support for smallholder farmers, providing them with essential beekeeping equipment, including beehives, protective clothing, and honey extraction tools.
GDARD assists farmers with seven to 100 beehives, helping to foster growth in the sector. For those interested in starting a career in beekeeping, GDARD offers training programmes in partnership with the Agricultural Research Council and the Mineworkers Development Agency.
Aspiring farmers can find more information about these programmes on the department's website. In a world that often overlooks the small wonders of nature, Lulu’s mission is as sweet as the honey she harvests.
