Welcome to the Miombo Forest
Traditional Zambian Beekeeping
Beekeeping is a traditional practice that dates back 500 years in north western Zambia.
Bark hives are kept in trees and spread out over large distances as far as 50 kilometers. These hives can last up to 20 years.
No antibiotics are used at any point in the beekeeping and honey harvesting process, and because the bees forage deep in the miombo forests – an area far removed from commercial agriculture – the resulting product is untouched by any pesticides.
These methods have been passed down from generation to generation among our beekeepers, and we are pleased to have learned from them and to work with them to continue this special tradition.
Traditional Hives vs Deforestation
The debate surrounding traditional beekeeping's role in deforestation requires a nuanced understanding of socioeconomic realities and environmental impacts. While traditional methods do involve harvesting trees for hive construction, their overall contribution to forest depletion is minor compared to other industries like logging and charcoal production.
Efforts to introduce modern beehives often disregard the financial limitations of impoverished villagers, resulting in limited adoption and unsustainable practices. Innovations, such as exploring alternative hive materials like bamboo, aim to strike a balance between environmental conservation and livelihood improvement in rural communities.
Wild Zambian Bees
The African honey bee or West African honey bee (Apis mellifera adansonii), is a subspecies of the Western honey bee, Apis mellifera. This subspecies is native to Central and West Africa and is known for its unique traits and behaviours that distinguish it from other honey bee subspecies. Understanding these differences is essential for appreciating the diversity within honey bees and recognizing the ecological and economic roles they play.
​
Apis mellifera adansonii is predominantly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, ranging from Senegal in the west to Uganda in the east. This geographical distribution is characterized by a warmer climate compared to the temperate zones where its cousin, the European honey bee (Apis mellifera), thrives. The climate tolerance of Apis mellifera adansonii has implications for its behaviour, hive management, and productivity.