Assessment of Honey Production Systems and Beekeeping Management Practices in Bita Woreda, Kaffa Zone, South Western Ethiopia

Abstract

Beekeeping is a vital agricultural practice in Ethiopia, contributing to household income, food security, and environmental sustainability through pollination. Challenges such as low productivity, pests, lack of modern equipment, and poor management hinder the sector's potential. This study evaluates honey production systems, beekeeping practices, and managements in Bita Woreda to identify opportunities for sustainable development. A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2024 to January 2025 in three kebeles (Sheda, Ona, Tageta ) using mixed-method approaches. A multistage sampling technique was employed, selecting 150 beekeepers (traditional, transitional, and modern hive users) from those Keble through stratified random sampling. Data were collected via questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, then analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic approaches. The study found that 36.7% of beekeepers use transitional hives, while 33.3% and 30% rely on traditional and modern hives, respectively. Modern hives were preferred for higher honey yields (81.3%) and ease of harvesting (76.7%), whereas traditional hives were favored for material availability (87.4%) and lower dependency on external inputs (87%). Annual honey production averaged 5–8 kg per traditional hive, 6–10 kg per transitional hive, and 10–16 kg per modern hive. Major constraints included lack of equipment (34.7%), colony shortages (28.6%), and pests (14%). While modern hives enhance productivity, traditional systems remain important for resource-limited beekeepers. Interventions should focus on training, pest management, and access to modern equipment to improve yields sustainably. Strengthening market linkages and promoting cooperative beekeeping can further enhance livelihoods and sector growth in Bita Woreda.