Unlocking potential 

For Itangi TIST Maziringa, developing beekeeping activities was never simply a question of getting started. This group of smallholder farmers had long been involved with environmental protection and restoration, and had built a dedicated, organised community around their shared goals. Their ‘Trees for Our Bees’ project identified an opportunity to build on their work, combining their existing knowledge and commitment with support from Bees Abroad for the practical skills and equipment needed to take their beekeeping to the next level. 

Beekeeping was already being undertaken many members of the group. It was only a small and secondary source of income for the vast majority – but could become so much more. The experience of one member offered a glimpse into what could be possible with the right resources: one of the very few with access to a bee suit and hive tool, he was already producing a volume of processed honey that demonstrated this could be a viable and substantial income source for famers in the area. 

An introduction to beekeeping theory

Rooted in nature, ready to grow 

Working with TIST Program (The International Small Group and Tree Planting Program) Itangi TIST Mazingira was already planting and conserving trees for carbon sequestration, restoring native ecosystems, and adopting organic farming methods. Beekeeping was the natural next step to take – the project ‘Trees for Our Bees’ was inspired by a desire to increase the number of indigenous trees for the bees to forage, expanding and bolstering the area’s natural, native ecosystems.  

Indigenous trees can play an important role in supporting healthy bee populations, providing nectar and pollen that help sustain bees throughout the year, while diverse tree and shrub species can support a wider variety of pollinators. By combining their existing tree-planting work with beekeeping, Itangi TIST Mazingira is building on its commitment to the environment, helping create a landscape that supports pollinators while developing a potential source of sustainable income.

Community Roots 

Community organisation was key to the setup of this project. The group meets at least once per month, with a consistently high attendance rate. The group leader, George Ndikwe, makes a point of ensuring the meetings “are conducted with dignity and that views of all members are taken into consideration without discrimination.” 

This is one of Bees Abroad’s newer projects. Since we started working with Itangi TIST Mazingira in February 2026, members have received introductory training in beekeeping theory, hive construction and placement, and apiary management. The group is more than halfway to their goal of building and placing 20 beehives set up across two plots on members’ farms. Some members have also begun building their own hives and setting up their own apiaries as well. 

With the right support, communities can build on their existing knowledge and ambition to create new opportunities for both people and the environment. Through this year's Big Give campaign, you can help us support projects in Kenya and Uganda that strengthen sustainable livelihoods and environmental conservation. The campaign starts on Tuesday, the 1st of December and runs for only one week. Save the date or let us remind you by filling in this short form.