Southern Sudan has suffered a long history of underdevelopment and civil war, but with a peace agreement now in place, reconstruction of the region has begun. Nevertheless, fighting still breaks out, often over competition for water and resources. Helping people to develop stable livelihoods therefore forms the basis of Oxfam’s work. In two different states, your gifts are helping traditional beekeepers to produce more – and more yummy – honey to sell.

In the Lakes State, Oxfam is helping members of the minority Jurbel and Bongo tribes, who grow a few crops, keep some livestock, and produce honey. In September 2006, 100 beekeepers spent three days learning how to improve their honey production. During training they tried on their new protective clothing (pictured) and learned how to use ‘Kenya Top Bar Hives’ (KTBH). The Kenyan hives produce up to three times more honey than those the beekeepers traditionally use. They have now formed their own association to market their honey.

Monica Manyo Dogirigi spoke of the advantages of the new hives: “Women are scared of falling when harvesting honey, because the hives are placed so high up in the trees. Now I do not have to fear because Oxfam has shown us the KTBH that you do not have to hang so high. Oxfam also gave us the suits to protect us from stings.”

Beekeepers in Western Equatoria state received similar training, and representatives from three beekeeping groups went on to learn how to make the KTBH, and how to train others to do so – so their new skills will reach far and wide. Oxfam Unwrapped funds also provided the materials and tools for them to make 150 KTBHs for other group members when they got home. They each got some buckets too, in which to store and carry their honey hygienically. So as soon as the bees have done their bit, the beekeepers are all set to process the honey and get it to market in tip-top condition.