Apiculture in South Sudan
Beekeeping has a rich history in South Sudan, rooted in local customs and practices. Historically, communities would forage in forests for wild honey, which was a significant part of their culture and diet. Traditionally beekeeping was a communal and leisure activity, fostering social ties among community members who sought the delicious wild honey from tree trunks and caves.
South Sudan is endowed with extensive forests that provide a natural habitat for bees, rich in biodiversity and flowering plants. The numerous rivers and swamps in the country offer essential water sources for bee populations, promoting healthy colonies and honey production.
Recent years have seen a surge in global demand for honey, outpacing local production capabilities. This gap presents a significant opportunity for local beekeepers. Changes in traditional practices and the rise of diseases have impacted local production, highlighting the need for modern techniques and improved management practices in beekeeping.
There is an existing market for honey both regionally and globally. South Sudan's unique floral resources can cater to niche markets that value high-quality, organic honey. By investing in beekeeping, particularly among women and youth, South Sudan can unlock economic potential and create livelihoods. Training and support for these groups can enhance honey production and processing.
Hagana aims to lead the charge in developing South Sudan's honey sector, fostering sustainable practices that benefit local communities. The initiative seeks to partner with local youth and women, positioning them as primary producers and suppliers of honey and other agricultural products. This approach not only creates economic opportunities but also strengthens community bonds.
Bee Hive
One of the many types of local hives been used in South Sudan.
Havesting Bee Hive
Hagana works with farmers by using a geographical cluster system, where Honey is collected in containers that the company provides to farmers. This is to ensure that the quality of the honey remains unaltered.
Hagana Education
Hagana provides free training to farmers on all aspects of apiculture and apiary management, provides free buckets to farmers for easy of storage and harvest of honey as well as providing productive gears such as bee suits, smokers, bee brush, gumboot among other to maximize quality and friendliness to bees.
Hagana Services
A beekeeper selling his honey to Hagana,Hagana buys raw materials at the farm gate and transports them to Juba for value addition.