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The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, through its Forest Farm Facility (FFF) Project, is making significant strides in supporting the growth of beekeeping operations in Liberia. In a move aimed at strengthening local beekeeper operations, FAO Liberia has provided critical assistance to the Association of Beekeepers Liberia (ABEL), which in turn has extended its support to the Twah River Beekeeper Association (TRiBA) in Nimba County.
A key component of this initiative was the provision of various beekeeping materials that are vital for the success and sustainability of local beekeepers. As part of the collaboration, ABEL has supplied essential tools and equipment to TRiBA, enabling its members to enhance their operations and increase production capacity. These materials include protective gear, harvesting tools, and other beekeeping essentials, which will help improve the overall efficiency of the beekeeping process.
Just a few months ago, a significant milestone was achieved with the construction and distribution of approximately 100 beehives to members of TRiBA. These beehives, designed to improve the productivity and quality of honey production, have been placed with local beekeepers across the community. The introduction of these new beehives is expected to lead to increased honey yields, improved income for beekeepers, and the development of a sustainable local honey market that can support both livelihoods and local economies.
The support provided through the FFF Project is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable agriculture and rural development in Liberia, with a focus on empowering local communities through the enhancement of their skills, resources, and capacity. The FFF Project recognizes the role of beekeeping as a valuable component of both environmental conservation and income generation in rural communities.
The Twah River Beekeeper Association, made up of passionate and dedicated members, has already begun to see the benefits of the newly supplied materials and the beehives. These tools have not only improved the efficiency of honey production but have also enhanced the association’s ability to maintain and expand its operations, ensuring long-term sustainability for local beekeepers.
“This support is truly a game-changer for us,” said the president of TRiBA. “The new beehives and equipment will make a huge difference in our ability to produce high-quality honey and expand our business. We are grateful for the assistance from ABEL and FAO, and we are excited about the future of beekeeping in our community.”
FAO Liberia continues to prioritize projects that foster sustainable agriculture, rural development, and the well-being of local communities. The partnership with ABEL and the Twah River Beekeeper Association is just one example of how the FAO’s Forest Farm Facility Project is working to strengthen livelihoods, enhance food security, and promote environmental sustainability across Liberia.
This collaboration is expected to have far-reaching benefits for the local economy, as it provides an opportunity for farmers and beekeepers to engage in a profitable and environmentally friendly business. With the continued support of FAO and ABEL, beekeeping in Nimba County and beyond has the potential to thrive, benefiting both the beekeepers and their communities for years to come.
The support provided by FAO, in partnership with ABEL, has also helped local beekeepers enhance their skills through training programs, improving their knowledge of sustainable beekeeping practices and forest conservation methods. This knowledge empowers them to manage their operations efficiently and responsibly, ensuring that their activities do not contribute to environmental degradation.
By encouraging alternative livelihoods like beekeeping, the FAO’s Forest Farm Facility Project is helping to reduce pressures on Liberia’s forests, which are vital for the country’s climate, biodiversity, and economy. As more beekeepers adopt sustainable practices, they are not only securing their livelihoods but also playing a crucial role in preserving Liberia’s rich natural heritage.
As the project continues to unfold, the hope is that beekeeping will not only become a cornerstone of rural economies in Liberia but will also inspire a broader movement toward sustainable agricultural practices that prioritize the health of both people and the planet. The FAO’s efforts in supporting beekeepers are a testament to the power of sustainable development and its potential to create lasting change in the fight against deforestation and environmental degradation.
