Oxfam in Ethiopia - The Beekeeper's Story
Case study last updated in December 2004
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Mohammed tends his beehive. Credit: Jane Beesley/Oxfam |
Oxfam GB's Development Programme has been working with the local
communities to help teach them new skills.
In Burka Telila, Mohammed Ali took part in an Oxfam 15-day training
course on beekeeping.
"I have an improved beehive, which makes a significant difference.
For instance, I [produce much more]. Before I had 5-6 kgs of
honey per year, this increased to 25kgs of pure honey.
"The hives are easier to clean and inspect... so I see if
there are problems with the bees... like disease or insect invasion.
It is easier to access the combs and my own safety has improved.
From the income I earn I can send my children to school. All four
of my children go to school now.
"There is a significant difference between those who have
bees and those who don't. Our children go to school and I believe
that honey has a good contribution to intelligence. My children
stand first and second in school. When they are sick I use honey
as a medicine. It gives me energy to work in the field. Those who
don't have honey have little energy and their children are not going
to school."
Find out more about Ethiopia and Oxfam's work there on the main
Oxfam
GB website.
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