RedLAC Beekeeping Platform

Executive Summary

Beekeeping can be a powerful development tool for small family farmers in Latin America. Lack of technology adapted to tropical and subtropical environments, and poor adaptation to changing context conditions limit the competitiveness of production chains. This is exacerbated by the intensification of agricultural production, deforestation and climate change. On the other hand, awareness of the role of bees as pollinating agents, interest about the use of native forest with non-extractive activities, and the addition of value to primary production offer great opportunities. INTA of Argentina has been collaborating with IDIAF of the Dominican Republic, INIA of Uruguay and INTA of Costa Rica in the development of new technologies for beekeeping, capacity building and the exchange of experiences. They have also developed models of associated beekeepers to meet demands from growing national and global markets.  

The project established a platform that contributes to territorial development in the region, validating successful experiences and generating capabilities in other interested countries. It had the following components: Training, Innovation, Coordination and Communication.  

The project largely exceeded its original goals, thanks to the development of important partnerships with other institutions, including national and local governments, universities and producer associations. 

The technological solution

In order to reduce beehive mortality and increase honey production, the project implemented various technology packages. The main measures adopted included: the systematic replacement of queens and the planned multiplication of the apiary; the sanitary inspection of apiary in spring and autumn with sanitary control strategies without the use of antibiotics but using organic acaricides; periodic monitoring of varroosis, nosemosis and virosis; replacement of frames and panels in the brood chamber at a rate of 30% per year; nutritional protein and / or energy supplementation without the use of honey; and the establishment of field, economic and financial records for management analysis and production planning for the next year, among others.

Results

Beneficiaries

In its initial stage, the project had as direct beneficiaries around 20,000 beekeepers and their families (approximately 50% women and youth), 35 organizations of beekeepers, input suppliers, processors and marketers. It also had as indirect beneficiaries more than 100,000 beekeepers, and an indefinite number of consumers who benefited from certified quality honey and new products developed. 

Sustainable Development Goals

Main donors

Dissemination products