Market-oriented Rural Enterprise for Honey (MORE-HONEY) in Uganda

MORE-HONEY promoted the development of an equitable honey value chain in Northern Uganda (Karamoja and Acholi Region) one of the poorest regions of Uganda. The project contributed to the achievement of SDG 8 by increasing incomes for 2,000 smallholder farmers including 200 refugees who benefited from increased skills and access to reliable and profitable markets. More specifically, the project promoted technological innovation in the value chain (SDG 8.2), created decent work opportunities for women and men (SDG 8.5) and supported income increase for smallholder farmers, including young people (SDG 8.6). Thus, the project contributed to the achievement of SDG 1 (Ending poverty) by increasing household income for poor farmers, and to SDG 5 (Gender equality) by promoting the economic independence of women.

The project promoted local economic development through GBL, Swienty Commodities’ and the Kahlwax’s commercial objectives of increasing the quantity, quality and traceability of honey and wax sourced from smallholder farmers. By the end of the project, a total of 890 FTE jobs were created in the honey value chain mainly for youth and women. Smallholder farmers’ income increased to UGX 847,145 from UGX 33,621 at the baseline. The More Honey Project has enhanced the quality of life for participating farmers by providing them with a reliable source of income. Beekeeping has proven to be a viable alternative to traditional farming, offering farmers an opportunity to diversify their income streams. With the additional income from honey production, families can afford better healthcare, education, and improved living conditions.

Honey production increased to 544MT/year from 2,000 smallholder farmers compared to 55MT / year at the beginning of the project. Average production per beehive increased from 8kg per hive to 11.75kg per KTB hive and 10.3kg per traditional hive. Average price of honey increased from UGX 6,000 at baseline to UGX 9,500. The project has had a substantial economic impact on the local communities. By training farmers in modern beekeeping techniques and providing them with necessary equipment, the project has increased honey production and quality. This has enabled farmers to access higher-value markets, leading to increased household incomes. Additionally, the establishment of cooperative marketing (aggregation and bulking) has empowered farmers to negotiate better prices and reduce transaction costs.

Additionally, the interventions promoted environmental sustainability by encouraging practices that benefit both the farmers and the ecosystem. Beekeeping fosters biodiversity and improves pollination, which enhances crop yields and agricultural productivity. Furthermore, the project discouraged practices that harm the environment, such as deforestation and the use of harmful pesticides, contributing to the preservation of natural habitats.

Overall, the More a Honey Project by Self Help Africa in Uganda is a shining example of how sustainable agricultural practices can drive economic growth, improve quality of life, and protect the environment.