Kitui County, through its Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, has distributed essential beekeeping equipment to farmer groups in Waita, Mui, Nguni, and Kivou wards of Mwingi Central sub-county. This initiative, which includes Langstroth beehives, smokers, buckets, and bee suits, aims to support beekeeping farmers across all sub-counties.
The distribution event comes ahead of World Bee Day, celebrated annually on May 20th. This year’s theme, “Bee Engaged with Youth,” highlights the importance of pollinators, the challenges they face, and their vital role in sustainable development. The theme emphasizes protecting bees and other pollinators, which are crucial for addressing global food supply issues and alleviating hunger in developing countries.
During the event in Mwingi Central, Dr. Stephen Mbaya Kimwele, Kitui’s Executive for Agriculture and Livestock, spoke about the crucial role pollinators play in honey production, which serves as both a food source and an income generator. Dr. Kimwele urged beekeepers to adopt practices that protect bees and warned against activities that threaten their survival and ecosystem roles.
He also stressed the importance of avoiding pesticide spraying during the day to prevent bee fatalities, highlighting the economic and nutritional risks associated with declining bee populations.
“Governor Dr. Julius Malombe’s administration is actively supporting agriculture by empowering farmers through such activities,” Dr. Kimwele stated.
This initiative is not only aimed at safeguarding bees but also at creating employment and improving livelihoods for Kitui residents.
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