Beekeeping Empowerment Project (BEP)

Project Overview:

The Beekeeping Empowerment Project promotes beekeeping as an environmentally friendly income‑generating activity that supports forest conservation while improving household incomes and nutrition. The project was developed following a reconnaissance survey conducted in 2019, which identified strong community forest groups but limited knowledge on value addition and income generation from natural resources.
WAPEDO introduced modern beekeeping practices to diversify livelihoods, reduce reliance on destructive forest use, and strengthen local economies. The project integrates practical training, provision of equipment, and enterprise development support.

Theme: Sustainable Livelihoods and Environmental Conservation

Status: Ongoing

Duration: 2021 – Present
Location: Kisokwe, Idilo and Chamhawi villages, Mpwapwa District, Dodoma Region, Tanzania

Objectives

1) Increase household income through sustainable beekeeping
2) Promote forest conservation through bee‑friendly practices
3) Improve skills in honey and wax production and processing
4) Strengthen community‑based natural resource enterprises

Results and Achievements

1) Establishment of 20 Top‑bar beehives across three village forest groups
2) Training of core forest group members in beekeeping practices
3) Introduction of beekeeping as a viable micro‑enterprise in Mpwapwa District
4) Improved household income and health benefits from honey consumption

Partners

1) Individual supporters and friends of WAPEDO
2) Village Forest Conservation Groups