Beekeeping is a traditionally well-established household activity in almost all parts of Ethiopia. Ethiopian honey production is characterized by the widespread use of traditional technology resulting in relatively low honey production and poor quality harvested when compared to the potential honey yields and quality gains associated with modern beehives. Considering its importance to the overall growth of the agricultural sector, the Government of Ethiopia gives special emphasis to enhance honey production through the promotion and expansion of beekeeping activities. This paper looks at the role of beekeepers in honey production and marketing. It pays particular attention to the results of beekeeping practices, issues that enhance or impede honey producers’ capacities and explore complementary strategies that enhance the development of beekeeping sector. Descriptive and regression analysis is used to examine the relationship between honey production and factors that influences it. Relying on a survey result and observations, it is concluded that, honey producers could significantly improve honey production can contribute to poverty alleviation in the country.
Bee harvesting, Traditional beekeeping, Market, Poverty alleviation
