Beekeeping for Self-Sufficiency

Established in 2003, KISI aims to improve agricultural productivity and empower communities through sustainable practices.

KISI is a local NGO and one of the groups they support is the the Yellow Ripe Beekeepers. The Yellow Ripe Beekeepers are a group of 18 farmers who saw beekeeping as both an additional income source and a way to boost their fruit tree yields.

In 2018, Bees Abroad began working with KISI and their groups. Initially, KISI requested 20 hives and 10 bee suits, but after consultations, the plan shifted to include capacity building and training in beekeeping and hive production for sustainability. In 2019, they received a bench saw, an over-lock sewing machine, and training to produce hives and bee suits themselves.

Increasing honey production by 115%

KISI used their newfound tools and knowledge to make hives and bee suits to support their community and other beekeepers in the local area. In the March 2019 harvest, the group reported that their honey production increased from around 2 kg per hive to 4.3 kg per hive—an impressive 115% improvement—thanks to better hives and enhanced bee husbandry skills. As for fruit tree yields, it’s well-known that beekeeping increases the yield and quality of many crops.

In August 2024 Geoff, a Bees Abroad Partnership Manager, visited the KISI group and they had a surprising update – they told us how they’ve been using beekeeping to help tackle period poverty.  

Beekeeping to tackle Period Poverty

In Kenya, period poverty affects around 65% of women and girls, it means not having the basic sanitary products to manage a period.  KISI saw an opportunity to use their beekeeping materials and income to help tackle this problem. Using the bench saw, over-lock sewing machine, and training on how to use them, KISI have been producing and selling hives and bee suits.

With revenue from the sales, and using the sewing machine provided by Bees Abroad, KISI members are making reusable period pads. These are donated to local women and girls unable to afford sanitary products.

This initiative is making a tangible difference in the lives of women and girls in the local community, giving them the confidence and comfort to attend school or work with dignity. The Kiini Sustainable Initiative is a remarkable example of Community Spirit  can help tackle big social and economic issues.