Boost to beekeepers

We have been working alongside local apiarists to help give a boost to beekeepers in Turkey. We’ve helped boost honey yields by providing a consultant to help upskill local beekeepers in line with new, contemporary methods.

The idea for this project was first brought to mind when local beekeepers reported that their colonies were no longer surviving the winter. The end result of our work together has seen bee health improve, leading to better yields.

What’s the story?

Although no firm cause for the poor success rate could be established, in 2014, First Quantum invested in hiring a consultant, distributing hives, and provided queen bees to ensure consistency of species to about 40 beneficiaries, which has since grown to about 100 beekeepers in the valley. Within two years, the rate of bee colonies surviving winter increased to 95 per cent, from about 50 per cent. After four years, the recorded survival rate increased to 100 per cent.

Creating a community

The beekeepers have now formed a cooperative and cultural development committee, which has assisted in spreading the newly acquired skills to more beekeepers and continues to share the program’s success with the wider apiary community. Income generated from beekeeping from US$34,000 to US$236,000 per annum, providing more sustainable and greater income for farming and agricultural families.