Improved Beekeeping Technologies as Intervention for Unemployed Youth Group

Abstract

Beekeeping practice is as an important income-generating activity, employment and tourism. Its investment costs are relatively low which makes beekeeping a thriving business that can contribute invaluably to a household income. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the socio-economic contribution of beekeeping to youth by establishing beekeeping cooperatives of unemployed youth group around protected forest area. As to method, Ambo Woreda is selected purposively and two youth group which consist 34 members established. Two round training on improved beekeeping management practices and business planning given for group members. Forty box hives with honey bee colonies, beekeeping equipments and accessories delivered with technical support in establishment and follow up of honey bee colonies during the study period. Planting and managing multipurpose tree seedlings undertaken around the apiary with group members. As to the result, on average of 85.5kg kg pure honey harvested per season and marketed in surrounding local market and 21,375 Ethiopian Birr per season obtained from honey sold. Improved beekeeping knowledge, skill and awareness created on beekeeping as business are non financial results achieved as result of the intervention. The overall finding of this study mainly underlined beekeeping can be used as intervention tool for youth unemployment with integration of other income generating activities. Keywords: Beekeeping, intervention, income generation, unemployment DOI: 10.7176/JBAH/12-6-02 Publication date: March 31 st 2022