Beekeeping features in the Cameroon Adamawa grasslands

Abstract

Socioeconomic and technical factors influencing beekeeping were assessed in Mayo Banyo Division, Cameroon (Adamawa Highlands agroecological zone) from April and July 2015. A total of 113 beefarmers were surveyed using semi structural questionnaire, interviews and direct observations. Bees and beehive products were also described using classical features. Results showed that beekeepers were exclusively men, with 100% of respondents. They are between 30-50 years and married for more than 80% and all Muslim in Mayo Banyo. Less than 87% respondents have attended formal school. Nevertheless majority of them have been keeping bees for at least 15 years with main production objective being market and also own consumption. Bee species encountered in colonies is Apis mellifera adansonii, the African common bee, generally yellowish (in more than 89% colonies). The production system is predominantlyextensive, fixed hives being the main used, with number varying from 1 to 800 in the survey. Hives are placed on trees, at 1m at least above the soil. Bee wax is used as the main swarm attractant. Major beehives’ products are: honey (5 to 20 litres/hive) which is harvested yearly once in Mayo Banyo, wax, and rarely propolis and pollen. The main constraints identified are lack of training, colony absconding and pathologies, made up of predators and particularly hives’ moth. Beekeeping in Mayo Banyo division has socioeconomic and environmental potentials for communities’ livelihoods, though serious actions for improvement are required.