Bee farmers in Turkana Central and Loima sub-counties have received 100 beehives from the State Department of Livestock Development in a bid to boost apiculture in the county.
The hives were jointly handed over by Principal Secretary Jonathan Mueke, Deputy Governor Dr John Erus, and Loima Member of Parliament Dr Protus Akuja during a ceremony held at the Turkana Central CDF offices.
The event was also attended by County Commissioner Julius Kavita, Chief Officer for Livestock Development Peter Eregae and Director Bobby Ekadon.
In his remarks, the PS said the hives, valued at Sh500,000, should be treated as seed capital to support farmers’ entry into and expansion within the apiary sector.
He further revealed that efforts are underway to implement the presidential directive to complete the Lomidat abattoir within the year, a move expected to boost livestock trade and meat processing in Turkana.
While appreciating the donation, Deputy Governor Dr John Erus urged the receiving groups to make effective use of the support, noting that the bee and honey value chains have been identified as high-potential economic opportunities for the county.
County leaders also called for special national government support for Turkana in light of the worsening drought situation, warning that urgent interventions are needed to safeguard the county’s large livestock population.
By Peter Gitonga
