Turkana honey output hits 138 tonnes

Turkana County has recorded a remarkable transformation in its economy, producing 138 metric tonnes of honey in 2024, valued at Sh128 million.

This surge in production marks a successful shift by pastoralist communities towards beekeeping as an alternative and sustainable livelihood, especially in the face of climate change and diminishing grazing lands.

According to the Daily Nation, the County Government has been instrumental in this transition, allocating 5% of its Department of Livestock budget to support the apiculture sector.

The investment has enabled the distribution of over 1,200 modern beehives and the training of more than 640 local beekeepers.

Additionally, a honey processing and value addition centre was established in Naotin to boost production and enhance product quality.

Beeswax production has also flourished, reaching 46 metric tonnes and earning Sh32 million in revenue.

This growth has further been supported by the development of seven active beekeeping cooperatives in the region.

Notably, the beekeeping initiative has become a driver of inclusivity and economic empowerment.

Women and youth make up 68% of the new entrants into apiculture, with the county government supporting 24 women's groups and five youth cooperatives involved in honey production, processing, and marketing.

Officials say this diversification of livelihoods not only improves household incomes but also promotes environmental sustainability and community resilience in arid and semi-arid regions.

Turkana’s honey success story offers a promising blueprint for economic transformation in other pastoral areas of Kenya.