A survey of apicultural practices in Lira and Adjumani districts of Uganda: implications for beekeeping development

Abstract

Beekeeping plays a key role in the socio-economic development and environmental conservation in developing countries. This study assessed the socio-economics, hive colonization methods, management practices, beehive types and factors influencing beekeeping technologies in Lira and Adjumani districts of Northern Uganda. Data were collected through beekeepers’ interviews followed by field observations to verify the data from interviews between April and May 2015. Overall, 89.7% of beekeepers in both districts were males. Most beekeepers (95.3%) in both districts had formal education. Also, most beekeepers (78.7%) in both districts used traditional beehives (TH). Also, most beekeepers (82.1%) baited their beehives with bee propolis or cow dung to increase chances of hive colonization. Factors that influenced the use of beekeeping technologies include attainment of formal education and training. Training on beekeeping increased the likelihood of using modern technology of beekeeping in both districts. In general, most beekeepers still predominantly use traditional beekeeping technologies. Therefore, there is need to develop beekeeping through training of beekeepers on improved beekeeping technologies.

Key words: Apiculture, hive colonization, hive types, management, socio-economics, Uganda