Our premium Mangrove honey is priced at 8 US Dollars per liter – Mwazaro is a coastal area nestled within Kwale County, Kenya, renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery and diverse ecosystems. Situated along the Indian Ocean shoreline, Mwazaro boasts lush mangrove forests, pristine sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.
At the heart of Mwazaro lies its close-knit local community, whose livelihoods are intricately connected to the land and sea. Fishing is a central activity for many residents, providing sustenance and income for households. Agriculture also plays a significant role, with small-scale farming practices contributing to local food security.
The community’s deep-rooted ties to the environment foster a strong sense of stewardship and conservation. Residents actively participate in initiatives aimed at protecting the area’s biodiversity, including mangrove restoration projects, beach clean-ups, and sustainable fishing practices.
During our visit to Mwazaro, we were greeted by the spirited members of the Mwazaro Beach Management Unit self-help group. Their dedication to the multifaceted restoration of the mangroves, pioneering Integrated Mangrove beekeeping, advancing fish farming, and implementing effective waste management strategies was truly inspiring. Their tireless efforts not only rejuvenate the environment but also uplift the community, setting a shining example of sustainable development in action.
Meet Moddy Ali, a steadfast member of the Mwazaro Beach Management Unit Self Help Group as he graciously unveils their success journey.
When did you start this project of beekeeping, integrated to mangrove Restoration?
Our beekeeping project started as an additional initiative to our mangrove restoration works, seeking our livelihood sustenance in the year 2021.
Are there any benefits the community is getting from this project?
The benefits are many, and some of them we came to discover later in the process. We realized we can use honey as medicine, beekeeping has contributed to the increased agriculture production here and we also generate income from the sell.
The income generated has helped us in so many ways. Sorting hospital bills, paying school fees, clothing and buying food are just some of the benefits this project has brought to us.
What is the price for the honey you produce?
Currently we are selling our honey in terms of litres but incase someone wants less than that, we can still sell. One litre of our honey is selling at Ksh1000 or 8 US Dollars.
How about the women involvement in your project?
Yes, women are fully involved throughout the project. Actually, the majority of our members are women who are helping us in taking hives for trapping, packaging and selling the honey.
What’s your advise to the public on beekeeping project?
I will say, beekeeping is one of smart ways to make a living. Especially with the environmental condition at our coast region, these are the projects that are set to change the our life status.
As the sun sets on our exploration of Mwazaro, the Beach Management Unit Self Help Group emerges as a beacon of resilience and inspiration. Beyond their noble pursuit of environmental conservation, their innovative approach to Integrated Mangrove beekeeping stands as a testament to sustainable livelihoods. Through their unwavering dedication, not only is the environment revitalized, but the entire community thrives, reaping the abundant rewards of their visionary project.
Our premium Mangrove honey is priced at 8 US Dollars per liter
