annual report on beekeepin

REPUBLIC OF KENYA

M I N I S T R Y O F L I V E S T O C K D E V E L O P M E N T

Telephone: 0202044797/8Fax:718318When replying please quote

Ref: NBS/6/XXIII/2

NATIONAL BEEKEEPING STATIONOFF NGONG ROAD

NEXT TO LENANA SCHOOLP. O. Box 34188-00100

NAIROBI

Date: 17th February, 2009

The Chief,

Apiculture and Emerging Livestock DivisionP. O. Box 34188-00100NAIROBI

R E : A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 0 8

I wish to forward the station’s annual report for the calendar year 2008.

Thanks.

R. M. MbaeOfficer-In-ChargeNATIONAL BEEKEEPING STATION

2

D I S T R I B U T I O N L I S T The Permanent Secretary – Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Development

Director of Livestock Production

Agriculture Secretary

Chief, Apiculture & Emerging Livestock Division

Chief, Value Addition & Agribusiness Division.

Chief, Animal Production Division

Chief, Extension Services Division

Chief, Training and Manpower Development

Chief Range Management Division

FIELD

Provincial Directors of Livestock Production

District Livestock Production Officers

National Beekeeping Station Technical Staff

Kilimo Library

Hill Plaza Library

National Beekeeping Station Library

Kenya National Library

Egerton University

University of Nairobi- Kabete Campus

Jomo Kenyatta University

Moi University

Pwani University College

Baraka Agriculture College

KARI – Director

AIC – Director

Bukura agricultural college

Dairy Training Institute

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FOREWORD

2008 ANNUAL REPORT

The year 2008 was quite busy compared to the previous year.

We carried a number of activities that were supported by Livestock & Rural LivelihoodsASAL Based Support Project (ALLPRO). We received many institutions that visited thestation on educational tours. The staff at the station participated in various stakeholder

forums particularly in exhibitions where various technologies on production, processingand value addition were displayed. Nairobi International Trade Fair was the core exhibitionwhere the station displayed under Ministry of Livestock Development and emerged 3rd

overall. Production of beekeeping equipment was low over the year as no budgetaryprovision was availed. Honey survey and analysis of the samples was carried out and 220samples were submitted. The performance in terms of honey quality was good and it is

only fair to say most of honey in the market has considerably improved in quality over theyears.

Let me thank all the staff at the station for their devotion and ensuring this report isproduced in time. I wish to extend my appreciation to Mr. A.K. Biwott and M/s RukiyaMohamed for their effort in typesetting and production of this annual report.

R. M. MbaeOfficer-In-Charge

NATIONAL BEEKEEPING STATION

4

TABLE OF CONTENTSDISTRIBUTION LIST 2

F O R E W O R D 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4

1 . 0 P E R S O N N E L 6

1.1 STAFF POSITI ONS ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

1.2 STRENGT H ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

1.3 NEW ST AFF ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

1.4 TRANSFER ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

1.5 RETIREMENT ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

1.6 RESIGNATI ON ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

1.7 STUDY LEAVE ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

1.8 NBS STAFF DESIGNATION AND DEPLOYMENT DURING 2008.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2.0 PROJECT MONITORING & EVALUATION SECTION 8

2.1 ASAL Based livestock & Rural Livelihood support Project (ALLPRO) .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

3.0 TRAINING AND EXTENSION SECTION 11

3.1 FARMER S/ART ISANS TRAI NING ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

3.1.1 MONTHLY TRAINING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

3.1.2 FARMER GROUPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

3.1.3 FIELD FARMER TRAINING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

3.2 EXTENSION STAFF AND ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS TRAINING ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

3.2.1 INSTITUTIONS TRAINING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

3.3 INTER NAL SEMINAR S/SYMPOSIA .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

3.3.1 INTERNAL MONTHLY STAFF SEMINAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

3.4 EXHI BITIONS/DEMONSTRATIONS/FIELD DAYS ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

3.5 SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS RETREATS & SYMPOSIUM HELD OUTSIDE THE STATION... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

3.6 INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

3.7 TRAINING OUTSIDE THE STATION... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

3.8 AGRICULT URAL SHOWS ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

3.7.1 NAIROBI INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

3.7.2 OTHER SHOWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

3.8 DOCUMENT ATION UNIT .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

3.9 LIBRAR Y ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

4.0 BEE MANAGEMENT, EQUIPMENT & PRODUCTION SECTION. 21

4.1 BEE EQUI PMENT DESIGN AND PR ODUCTION UNIT .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

4.1.2 EQUIPMENT PRODUCTION TREND SINCE 2001.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

4.1.3 PRIVAT E BEE EQUI PMENT MANUF ACTUR ER S IN T HE COUNTRY ... . . . . . . . . . 23

4.2 APIARIES UNIT .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

4.2.1 LENANA (NBS) APIARIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

4.2.2 BOTANICAL GARDEN APIARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

4.2.3 BALCONY APIARY. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

5

4.2.4 FOREST APIARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

4.2.5 BULKING UNIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

4.2.6 JAMHURI PARK APIARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

4.2.7 NGONG APIARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

4.2.8 OLOOSEOS APIARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

4.2.9 NAIVASHA TRAPPING ZONE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

4.2.10 RECOMMENDATION AND CONCLUSION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

4.3 BEE BOTANY UNIT .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

4.4 BEE HEALT H AND I NVESTI GATI ON UNIT .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

5.0 HIVE PRODUCTS AND QUALITY ASSURANCE SECTION 29

5.1 HIVE PRODUCTS QUALITY ASSURANCE UNIT .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

5.1.1 SAMPLE ANALYSIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

5.1.2 CONSTRAINTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

5.1.3 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

5.2 HIVE PRODUCTS UTILISATION AND APITHERAPY... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

5.2.1 APITHERAPY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

5.2.2 HONEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

5.2.3 PROPOLIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

5.2.4 POLLEN, BEESWAX, ROYAL JELLY AND BEE VENOM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

5.2.5 CONSTRAINTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

5.3 HONEY PROCESSING AND MARKETING UNIT .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

5.3.1 INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

5.3.2 HONEY PROCESSED IN THE STATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

5.3.3 CONSULTATIONS ON HIVE PRODUCTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

5.3.4 MARKETING UNIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

5.3.5 PRICING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

5.3.6 HONEY MARKET SURVEY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

5.3.7 SOME RELIABLE HONEY DEALERS/PACKERS IN KENYA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

5.3.8 EXPORT AND IMPORT DATA FOR HONEY & BEESWAX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

6 . 0 S U P P L I E S S E R V I C E S 39

6.1 INTRODUCTION ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

6.1.1 GOODS AND SERVICES PROCURED IN THE YEAR 2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

7.0 TRANSPORT SERVICES 40

7.1 THE LIST OF VEHICLES AND OT HER CONDITIONS ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

8 . 0 A C C O U N T S S E C T I O N 41

8.1 RECOMMENDATIONS ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

9 . 0 V I S I T O R S 43

10.0 GOODS & SERVICES OFFERED AT THE STATION 44

6

1 . 0 P E R S O N N EL1.1 STAFF POSITIONS

The stat ion ’s s taff pos it ion remained a lmost s imi lar to the prev ious year . Min imalstaff movement was recorded.

1.2 STRENGTH

There were twenty four (24) members of staff, sixteen (16) technical and eight (8) supportive staff.

1.3 NEW STAFF

No new postings to the station occurred.

1.4 TRANSFER

One staff member Mr J. Maganda, transferred to Kilimo house.

1.5 RETIREMENT

No member retired.

1.6 RESIGNATION

No member of staff resigned.

1.7 STUDY LEAVE

One member of staff Mr J.M Muriuki proceeded on study leave to pursue MSc degree atUniversity of Nairobi. Two members, Mr. A.K Biwott and Mr. J.M Mochorwa reported back to workafter completing their studies at Kenyatta and Sokoine Universities respectively. Mrs P. Nzano isstill on study leave at University of Nairobi.

7

1.8 NBS STAFF DESIGNATION AND DEPLOYMENT DURING2008

NO. NAME P/NO. DESIGNATION DEPLOYMENT

1 R. M. Mbae 86076356 SADLP Officer-In-Charge

2. A. K. Biwott 97004427 LPO I Head, Project Monitoring &Evaluation

3. J. M. Muriuki 94004680 CLPO On Study leave

4. P. B. Okinyi 97004930 LPO I Head, Training & Extension

5. B. N. Wainaina 97033230 LPO I Head-Quality assurance &Hive products

6. J. M. Mochorwa 86054388 ALPO II Head, Bee Equipment &Investigations

7. R. A. Mohammed (Ms) 78083014 ALPO I Documentation

8. E. N. Kyengo (Mrs) 78027995 ALPO II Farmers, Staff &InstitutionalTraining

9. R. J. Yego (Mrs) 81038604 ALPO II Farmers, Staff &InstitutionalTraining

10. A. M. Muchoki (Ms) 81139248 ALPO II Bee Botany and Health

10. S. A. Mcligeyo (Mrs) 82028335 ALPO II Quality Control

11. P. N. Nzano (Mrs) 85084283 ALPO II On study leave

12. Z. W. Ruhi (Ms) 87079797 ALPO II Products Processing,Marketing, Value addition &Home Economics

14. J. A. Oketch (Ms) 81139167 ALPO II Apiary Management (Ngongand Olooseos)

15. W. W. Mutiso (Ms) 87058937 SLPA Apitherapy

16. C. J. Koech (Ms) 84099104 LPA I Apiary Management andLibrary services

18. W. N. Nyamweya 80119669 Senior driver Driving

19. J. W. Kariuki (Mrs) 77053888 S.S.M Procurement

20. D. W. Ngugi 79150262 S.C.O Accounts

21. S. M. Kamunyu 82025777 Charge hand Tinsmith

22. B. W. Mwenga 99006645 Short handTypist

Secretarial

23. S. N. Kimani 81115595 Mason II Carpentry

24. J. D. Amolo 79149994 Tailor III Tailoring

25. J.M. Maganda 2004003759 Driver III Driving

8

2.0 PROJECT MONITORING & EVALUATION SECTION

This section was established in 2008 to address certain vital activities of the station that had not beengiven prominence before. These include development of project proposals and implementation and co-

ordination of ASAL Based Livestock & Rural Livelihoods Support project’s (ALLPRO) activities at thestation. Others are preparation of budget estimates, annual reports, handbooks, pamphlets, provisionof computer services and their maintenance and serve as the secretariat for the Kenya BeekeepersAssociation (KBA).

2.1 ASAL Based livestock & Rural Livelihood support

Project (ALLPRO)

ALLPRO is a project of the Ministry of Livestock Development with the objective of improving sustainable rural

livelihoods and food security through improved livestock productivity, marketing and support for drought

management and food security initiatives. It is financed by the African Development Bank, GOK and

beneficiaries.

The project has a six-year implementation period (July 2004 – December 2001). The project areas reflect the

major production systems in the ASALS i.e pastoralism and agropastoralism. It covers 22 districts in the arid and

semi-arid lands of Kenya. These were selected based on the level of poverty and potential for success and

impact. The districts are Garissa, Isiolo, Mandera, Marsabit, Moyale, Samburu, Tana River, Turkana, Wajir,

West Pokot, Baringo, Ijara, Kajiado, Laikipia, Mbeere, Machakos, Makueni, Kitui, Malindi, Mwingi, Narok, and

Taita Taveta. Supported also are livestock centres and stations among which is the National Beekeeping Station

(NBS).

Project Description

The project focuses on four technical components namely; sustainable livestock improvement, animal health,

livestock marketing improvement, and drought management and food security initiatives. The latter aims at

supporting enhancement of incomes and food security in the ASALS, focusing on support to beekeeping, camel

rearing, community based livestock early warning systems and drought mitigation measures, improvement in

water supply points, geder sensitization and support activities, and support for demand –driven community based

participatory initiatives (CBDDIs)

National Beekeeping Station project support.

NBS was identified as one of the key stations for the implementation of beekeeping projects in conjunction with

the identified districts. Support for the station is in farmer and stakeholder trainings, staff training, sponsorship of

staff for further studies, establishment of bee bulking sites and colony transfer, rehabilitation of workshop

equipment, and supply of chemicals and equipment to the laboratory.

9

Update of beekeeping project carried out by NBS

` The tabulation below is an update of the activities earmarked for implementation by the NBS through the support

of ALLPRO.

UPDATE ON IMPLEMENTATION OF BEEKEEPING ACTIVITIES (2004 – 2008)

Component Sub- component Unit CumulativeTarget2004-2008

Actualachievement

Remarks

Equipment LaboratoryEquipment

Lump sum 1 Much of theequipment havebeen delivered

The pending equipment includeHPLC, AAS and UVVIS

LaboratoryChemicals

Lump sum 1 Chemicalsprocured

Most of the chemicals weredelivered; however,supplementation is necessary fora number of chemicals.

Rehabilitation ofEquipment

Lump sum 1 1 –borehole pumpreplaced

Workshop machines andtailoring machines requirereplacement

Computer andaccessory

No 1 1 computer,1printer and1UPSreceived

A Laptop, and an LCDProjector required for fieldtrainings

SpecialistServices

NGO Support forformation ofAssociations

Association

30 Nil KBA and regional basedassociations require urgentsupport

KEBS (Qualitycontrol)

Visit 34 Nil Routine honey quality surveysand sample analysis should beundertaken. There is also need toreview the existing standardsfor hive products

Training Beekeepers Course 20 2 trainingsconducted

30 Beekeepers trained inNarok.

30 Beekeepers trained inTaita

Training of beekeepers in theproject districts should be fast-tracked

Refreshertraining for fieldstaff.

Course 6 Nil Courses for District SMS areneeded since most of theseofficers lack beekeepingtechnical know-how

Staff Training Course 2 Nil TOT and modern Lab analysisprocedures for NBS Staffrequired.

Initial trainingfor extensionstaff

Course 4 Nil Staff from the project Districtsrequire basic Beekeepingtraining

Farmers/Artisans Course 35 1 training held 6 Artisans from 4 ProjectDistricts trained at National BeeKeeping station. More trainingsshould be facilitated to ensurethat improved equipment areeasily availed to beekeepers

10

DiplomaTraining

Course 3 3 trainings funded I officer from NBS and 2 fromthe field are undertaking thetraining in Tanzania

Msc. Training Course 1 1 training funded 1 officer from NBS is currentlyundertaking a Msc course at alocal university

HoneyProcessors

No 6 1 training held 14 Honey Processors from 12Project Districts attendedtraining in Mwingi. The rest ofthe trainings should befacilitated.

Training aids Set 1 Nil Urgently required for fieldtraining

Bee BulkingStations

No 5 2 sites established Lenana and Taita bulking sitesare complete and partiallyoperational. Others in Garissa ,Laikipia and Kajiado not yetestablished

OfficeSupplies

- Lump sum 7 3 consignments ofassorted suppliesreceived

Printer cartridges, photocopyingpapers, flip charts etc have beenreceived on a regular basis.

EquipmentMaintenance

- Lump sum 7 Nil Laboratory, Workshop,Tailoring, water pumps,computers e.t.c. require routinemaintenance

Library /Documentation

Set 6 1 set (28 books, 3DvDs, 3 tablesand 6 chairsreceived)

The rest of the requirementsneed to be procured urgently inorder to make the Library fullyoperational

Constraints facing the project

There is lengthy and cumbersome procurement process resulting in delayed delivery of equipment and other stores.

Some laboratory equipment are yet to be delivered though the orders were made over a year ago.

Tedious and slow imprest application and acquisition procedures are common. There are just too many procedures to

be followed before funds for implementing activities are released. A lot of valuable time is wasted chasing imprests!

Delays by the PCU approving/facilitating beekeeping work plans have hampered faster projects implementation.

The station has no reliable vehicle to carry out field activities.

Recommedation

1. It is recommended that AIEs on the project be issued directly to the Officer-in-Charge, National Bee Keeping

Station.

2. A reliable vehicle be availed to enable officers carry out the various activities earmarked for the station

3. Project Coordinating Unit (PCU) to fast track implementation of beekeeping activities by National Beekeeping

Station. A lot of work is still pending particularly trainings of farmers, staff, artisans support for NGOs

formation.

11

3.0 TRAINING AND EXTENSION SECTION

The section has the mandate of planning and coordinating training and extension services offered bythe station. The target clientele include farmers, artisans engaged in making bee equipments, honeyparkers, extension service providers, schools and other institutions.

Monthly courses, field days, exhibitions, agricultural shows, seminars, work shops correspondents,

telephone and interpersonal conversations are some of the styles, methods and avenues used aschannels for disseminating extension packages.

The year under review was a busy one as demand in apicultural products continued gainingmomentum among the general public.

3.1 FARMERS/ARTISANS TRAINING

3.1.1 MONTHLY TRAINING

The one week course continued to thrive and the station managed to train 115participants. Use ofvisual warden aid and power points presentation made the course more effective.

In general the participants were out to explore much on technologies involved in beekeeping industry

and more so, on how to get started.

The topics covered during the training sessions are as follows:

1. Introduction to Beekeeping

2. Honeybee Castes - Theory/Practicals

3. Beekeeping equipment - Theory/Practicals

4. Apiary Siting - Theory/Practicals

5. Honeybee Plants - Theory/Practicals

6. Honeybee Behaviour - Theory

7. Honeybee Colony Management - Theory/Practicals

8. Honey harvesting - Practicals

9. Honey and Beeswax Processing - Practicals

10. Hive Products Marketing - Theory/Practicals

11. Hive Products Utilisation and Apitherapy - Theory/Practicals

12. Beekeeping Video Shows

13. Course Evaluation

12

During the year under review, a total of 115 farmers were trained during the monthly courses asindicated in the table below:-

MONTH NO. OF FARMERS INATTENDANCE

11th - 15th February 2008 14

31st-March - 4th April 2008 8

21st – 25th April 2008 14

12th – 16th May 2008 14

14th – 18th July 2008 25

11th – 15th August 2008 9

27th – 31st October 2008 18

17th – 21st November 2008 5

15th – 19th December 2008 10

TOTAL 115

3.1.2 FARMER GROUPS

Organised groups of farmers visited the station on a one day tour. The purpose of the visits was to get

an exposure of the activities carried out by the Station. Areas covered included:

The Wood Workshop and Equipment Design and Development.

Technology Developments.

The Honeybee Colony Management alongside Apiary Siting and Management.

Hive Product and Quality

Honey and Beeswax Processing.

The schedule of tour is summarised below

DATE NO. OF FARMERS DISTRICT

19.6.2008 14 Embu

17.7.2008 17 KIRDI

25.7.2008 50 Various locations

Total 81

13

3.1.3 FIELD FARMER TRAINING

The station carried out field farmers training. This was done in collaboration with ADB programs...These were as follows:

DATE VENUE OF TRAINING NO ATTENDED

8th -11th December 2008 Mwatate PAMCEFA, Taita district 32

14th – 16th April 2008 Mwingi District - Honey Refineries

managers, operators and processors

14

3.2 EXTENSION STAFF AND ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS TRAINING

The Year 2008 recorded a higher number of institutions and extension field that trained at the NationalBee keeping station and this is an indication that apiculture industry on an upward growth.

3.2.1 INSTITUTIONS TRAINING

The institution that benefited from programmes offered at the station were extension field staff, primary,secondary schools, tertiary institutions, universities, religious groups and non-governmental institutions

(NGOS). Students on attachments also benefited from the training. Duration of training varied from oneday tour to one week.

Primary & Secondary Schools

A good number of students and their teachers from various schools underwent training to gain moreknowledge on bee farming. Topics covered were in line with curriculum as below

1. Honeybee Castes and their Role in the Colony.

2. Apiary Siting and Hive Placement Patterns

3. Colony Management

4. Beekeeping equipment and their uses.

5. Workshop tools/machines & their functions.

6. Plants of economic importance to the honey bees

7. Hive products harvesting, processing and utilization

8. Video shows on Bee Keeping

14

The schools that visited the Station during the year under review were as listed below:-

1. Cider Groove Academy

2. Vineyard School

3. St.Charles Secondary School

4. Ngara Primary School

5. Ruiru East School

6. Parklands Secondary School

7. Mary Leakey Girls School

(ii) Tertiary Institutions (Colleges & Universities)

These institutions too benefited from training programs. The topics covered during the session wereas below:

Economic importance of beekeeping

Honeybee Races and their distribution

Beekeeping and its economic importance

Honeybee caste and Biology

Honeybee Behaviour

Bee Botany

Beekeeping Equipment

Honeybee Colony Management

Hive Products Utilisation, Marketing & Apitherapy

Hive products chemistry & Quality control.

Video Shows

In 2008, the beneficiaries were as below:-

INSTITUTION NO OF PARTICIPANTS

1. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture andTechnology (Strengthening the capacity of grassrootswomen for social economic development

50 women

2. University of Nairobi, College of Agriculture andVeterinary Science

15

3. Thika Institute of Technology 60

15

4. AHITI – Ndomba 180

5. AHITI – Kabete 60

6. AHITI – Nyahururu 77

7. University of Nairobi, Department of Animal Production 15

8. S.I.T.E Staff -

iii) Field Extension Staff

A total of 26 technical field extension staff was trained. The course programme covered thefollowing major topics:-

Economic importance of bee farming.

Honey bee taxonomy, races and their distribution.

Honey bee biology & behaviour

Bee botany.

Bee-farming record keeping.

Hive products processing and value addition

Hive products utilization and apitherapy.

Quality control and Standardization

Projects

The trainees were drawn from various districts as indicated below:-

DISTRICT NO OF PARTICIPANTS

1. Tharaka 3

2. Meru South 3

3. Mbeere 4

4. Embu 4

16

5. Imenti North 2

6. Imenti South 2

7. Tigania 1

8. Homa Bay 3

9. KIRDI Staff 4

3.3 INTERNAL SEMINARS/SYMPOSIA

3.3.1 INTERNAL MONTHLY STAFF SEMINAR

Internal seminars have been hailed as a forum where technical staff at the station meets toexchange ideas. This is conducted through presentation of research papers and other topicalissues on apiculture. Socio-economic and other cross–cutting issues are also discussed.

During the Year under review some relevant apicultural topics were presented

DATE DATE(s) TOPIC(S)DISCUSSED

PRESENTER REMARKS

29th April 2008 National BeekeepingPolicy

Robin Mbae The paper elaborated on the nationalbeekeeping policy.

4th November,2008

Tanzanian BeekeepingExperience

Jared Mochorwa The paper elaborated on the Tanzanianbeekeeping industry

4th November,2008

Beekeeping for Povertyalleviation

Okinyi Blaise The paper elaborated on beekeepingpractices across Europe as experienced bythe author

4th November,2008

Beekeeping in Israel andSouthern Sudan

Winnie Mutiso Paper highlighted beekeeping experiences inthese countries

3.4 EXHIBITIONS/DEMONSTRATIONS/FIELD DAYS

Most of these activities are held outside the station and are therefore developed as a collaborative

effort with other stakeholders.

During the Year under review, the station participated in a number of activities as listed below.

17

DATE ACTIVITY AND VENUE REMARKS

18th – 22nd Feb 2008 Public Service week at KICC A week long exhibition to promote public service

23rd -24th May 2008 EAEN exhibition at AMREF Exhibition of beekeeping technologies forenvironmental sustainability

27TH May 2008 A field day at Dagoreti, NairobiWest district

Provincial stake holders field day

12TH September 2008 A field day at Ngong AgriculturalTraining Centre (Ngong vet)

Field days on milk quality and Kilimo BiasharaField Day

16th October 2008 World food day at Jamhuri Park-

Nairobi

To show case our sector’s role in hunger

alleviation.

3.5 SEMINARS, WORKSHOPS RETREATS & SYMPOSIUM HELDOUTSIDE THESTATION

The Station participated in several activities in 2008.

DATE VENUE REMARKS

8th – 9th March 2008 KARI – Katumani - Machakos Animal Production Society of Kenya (APSK)Annual Scientific Symposium

July 2008 Naivasha Beekeeping Policy Workshop

August 2008 Naivasha Project Proposal Workshop

November 2008 Naivasha KARI – Kiboko Workshop on Dryland BeefarmingProject

October 2008 Nairobi Nairobi Show Post-mortem by Ministerial ShowCommittee

3.6 INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT

The Station once again played host to one student under industrial attachment. Details are as shownbelow: -

Name Institution Duration

Asirigwa, M.Gladys

Pwani University College, P. O. Box 195,KILIFI

5TH May – 27th June, 2008

3.7 TRAINING OUTSIDE THE STATION

These included the following:

18

Mwingi ADB Training

Taita ADB Training

3.8 AGRICULTURAL SHOWS

Agricultural shows play a pivotal role in serving as a forum for exchange of information betweenpeople of all walks of life. During the Year under review the station actively participated in the

shows, especially the Nairobi International Trade Fair

3.7.1 NAIROBI INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR

The Station staged striking display during this event and scooped 3rd position overall in the class ofsmall Local manufactures stand. The show was held on 29th September -5th October, 2008. Thetheme of the show was.” EMPOWERING PEOPLE THROUGH GROWTH IN AGRIBUSSINESS”

At the bee keeping stand, theme interpretation read “BEEKEEPING EMPOWERS PEOPLE TOGROW IN AGRIBUSINESS”

The stand was arranged according to various sections as follows:

Model. Bee equipment.

Bee plants and Pollution Bee Colony Management. Honey processing. Beeswax processing. Quality assurance. Marketing.

Apitherapy Utilization Products presentation Sales Apiary Management

Information Agribusiness Upper Stand (Production)

3.7.2 OTHER SHOWS

Other shows attended included Mombasa and Embu

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3.8 DOCUMENTATION UNIT

The main activities undertaken by the unit in the year included:

Preparation of the Station’s Annual Report for 2007

Publication of the Nyuki Newsletter 2007

Organisation of internal staff seminars.

Compilation of training materials for farmers and other stakeholders

The officer also trained farmers and extension field staff at the Station and was involved in siting abeekeeping training and demonstration apiary in Siaya District, Wagwer Division.

3.9 LIBRARY

Locally acquired publications were:

Biological control of the greater wax moth (Galleria Mellon Ella Nactudae) by using Bacillusthuringensis certan) in actual bee hive situation in Kenya –Research proposal.

Annual Animal Production Society of Kenya Scientific Symposium-8th -10th March, 2006 -

Isiolo.

National Beekeeping Station Annual Report 2007

Nyuki Newsletter

Mifugo Newsletter.

Samaki Newsletter

Local Daily Newspapers.

Foreign magazines included:

D +C

Network- Rural Women Magazine

Tropicultura

Bees for Development

The station received a donation of the following copies of books:

20

No. TITLE. AUTHOR(S)

1. Clean, naturally. Recipes for body home andspirit

Sandy Maine

2. Natural soap making. Marie Browning

3. The complete soap maker(Tips, techniques and

recipes for luxurious hand made soaps

Norma Coney

4. The soap makers companion- A comprehensiveGuide with recipes techniques and know how

Susan Miller Catritch

5. Grafting soap at home edited by Camilla

Crichton

Booklets include:

Managing Varroa.

Tropilaelaps: Parasitic Mites of Honey bees.

Four Brood Diseases of Honeybees: Recognition and Control

The Small Hive Beetle (A serious new threat to European apiculture).

21

4.0 BEE MANAGEMENT, EQUIPMENT & PRODUCTIONSECTION.

4.1 BEE EQUIPMENT DESIGN AND PRODUCTION UNIT

The primary function for the unit is to produce various bee equipment for distribution to bee farmers. The unitalso is in charge of training artisans and under takes survey country wide to ensure the production of standardbee equipment by artisans trained from the NBS workshop.

However, during the year under review there were many challenges since the section continued to experienceshortage in procurement of raw materials necessary to produce the bee equipment and thus subsequently ledto low production and supply of the said products to the consumers and other stakeholders. The buyers soughthelp from private manufacturers as an alternative although at higher prices.

The table below shows the bee equipment produced at the station and their prices during the year under

review;

NO ITEM PRODUCTION (Nos) PRICE PER UNIT(Ksh)

1 Kenya Top bar hive 61 3000.00

2 Langstroth hive 16 4500.00

3 Catcher box Nil 800.00

4 Feeder box 5 200.00

5 Queen Excluder 13 150.00

6 Bee brush 85 50.00

7 Bee smoker 47 750.00

8 Hive tool 10 100.00

9 Coverall 15 1900.00

10 Bee veil 9 500.00

11 Pair of Gloves 18 600.00

22

4.1.2 EQUIPMENT PRODUCTION TREND SINCE 2001

NO ITEM 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001

1 Kenya Top bar hive(KTBH)

61 29 31 33 88 251 380 399

2 Langstroth hive 16 7 7 6 46 41 21 9

3 Catcher box - 14 9 18 38 59 46 8

4 Feeder box 5 26 3 23 99 78 53 16

5 Observation hive - NIL NIL - - - - -

6 Queen Excluder 13 43 5 25 47 27 61 9

7 Smoker - 62 63 43 56 102 123 41

8 Hive tool - 4 108 74 90 61 40 33

9 Bee brush - 99 22 82 145 79 191 46

10 Coverall 15 33 42 24 51 119 119 123

11 Veil 9 33 42 24 51 125 135 116

12 Pair of gloves 18 33 42 24 51 108 152 122

13 Wax bog - - - 24 - - 10 -

14 Straining cloth - - - 10 - - - -

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4.1.3 PRIVATE BEE EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS IN THECOUNTRY

NAME ADDRESS

Tenwek Community Development Workshop Box 39, Tenewek-Bomet

Ngarua Technical Institute Ngarua Division, Laikipia

Ngando Bee Supplies Centre Thika District – 0721431462

Baraka Agricultural College P.O. Box 52, Molo

Tel.0254-51721091

Honey Care Africa Box 24487, Nairobi Tel.02574448

Gatanza Enterprises Box 20548 Nairobi, Tel.0722757598

African Beekeepers Limited Nairobi, Industrial Area

Box 3752-00506, Nairobi, Tel.0722700226

Christian Intermediate Training Centre P.O. Kapsabet.

Kamunje Enterprise TeL.0720974651

Ken Honey Products P. O. Ongata Rongai Tel. 0722897961

4.2 APIARIES UNIT

This unit is charged with management of all the stations’ apiaries including out station ones at Ngong,Naivasha and Olooseos apiaries. .

4.2.1 LENANA (NBS) APIARIES

Lenana apiaries comprises of:

Botanical Garden Apiary

24

Forest Apiary

Balcony Apiary (Office Roof top)

Bulking Apiary. (Adjacent to the Forest Apiary)

The activities that were carried out in the year mainly cover the managerial aspects of beekeeping. The routinework included: hive inspection, honey harvesting, clearing of apiaries, cleaning of hives, stocking empty hivesand colony division.

Below is a table showing the strength of the Lenana apiaries.

Apiary KTBH Langstroth Stone Hive

(Local innovation)

Mud Hive Total

Occupied unoccupied Occupied unoccupied Occupied unoccupied Occupied unoccupied

Botanical

Garden8 1 1 - - - - 1 11

Balcony 4 - 2 - - 1 - - 7

Forest 3 1 - - - - - - 4

Bulking unit 1 7 - 7 - - - - 15

Total 16 9 3 7 - 1 - 1 37

4.2.2 BOTANICAL GARDEN APIARY

The colonies here had no problems with pest attack and so their performance this time round was fair. Therewere at least 6 strong colonies out of 9. However, honey production was lower than the previous year. Thiswas due to the little rainfall received. Honey harvested in all was about 75 kg. We also pruned the bee plantswhich had over grown. The apiary continued to be an important area to those who visit the station as it isaccessible.

Labelling of hives has enabled us to improve the performance of each colony. Repairing of the mud hive was

done. There was no absconding in this apiary.

NB

The 2 sting less bee colonies from Western Province were kept in this apiary - 1 absconded.

25

4.2.3 BALCONY APIARY

There were 4 colonies at the beginning of the year but one absconded leaving Three colonies in place. Natural

occupation occurs here and this has been attributed to the height of the building. Initially there were a lot ofdead bees on the floor but situation came back to normal.

4.2.4 FOREST APIARY

This is a training apiary where trainees under take their practicals. At the beginning of the year the colonieswhere performing well. But towards the end of the year these bee colonies were attacked by wax moth. There

were indications of weakness and so we started feeding them. Natural occupation is low and the only way tostock empty hives is through division or getting colonies from else where.

Ventilation in the bee house has improved as a wire mesh was fixed on the upper part of the wall. Two coloniesabsconded from the bee house.

4.2.5 BULKING UNIT

The performance of bee colonies in this apiary has not been good especially those that were carried fromNaivasha. Investigation is underway to ascertain why this failure. At the beginning of the year, the colony in thestone hive was performing well before absconding. Feeding of these bee colonies was necessary and aboutnine kg of sugar was used.

4.2.6 JAMHURI PARK APIARY

A bee house and bee shed are the structures in this apiary. There are 3 hives in the bee house and 1 mudhive under the shed. This apiary is used as a demonstration apiary during the annual Nairobi InternationalTrade Fair (Agricultural Show) held at the Jamhuri Show ground.

4.2.7 NGONG APIARY

The apiary is situated at the Ngong FTC Farm on the lower part of the Agricultural Training Centre (ATC)demonstration plots. It is used as a training or demonstration facility for AHITI students on practicals,secondary and primary schools on educational tours and farmers field days.

4.2.7.1 Hive Condition

The apiary has a total of 21 hives. Some are old and need replacement. Others have been attacked bywaxmoth.

NO. HIVE TYPE OCCUPIED UNOCCUPIED TOTAL REMARKS

1 KTBH 5 4 9 2 attacked by waxmoth and 2

are old

26

2 LANGSTROTH 8 3 11 2 Infested by waxmoth and 1

absconded

3 TRADITIONAL LOG HIVE 0 1 1 Only for display

TOTAL 13 8 21

4.2.7.2 Foraging condition

The bees mainly foraged from plants like maize, citrus fruit, beans, key-apple, eucalyptus, grevillea, calliandra,Senna spectabilis, Osmium spp. and other shrubs.

4.2.7.3 Division and Feeding

There were two divisions made from strong colonies to increase the number or to prevent bees from swarming.These colonies were then fed using sugar syrup to increase the population in order to fend for them.

4.2.7.4 Harvesting

Honey was harvested two times .The production was not all that good but a total of 86 kg of unprocessedhoney was harvested and handed over to the relevant section for processing.

4.2.8 OLOOSEOS APIARY

No visit was carried out to the above apiary. Plans are underway to put the management under the localprimary school since it difficult to manage it from here. The last time a visit was made the headmaster was notavailable so the matter was not concluded.

4.2.9 NAIVASHA TRAPPING ZONENaivasha trapping zone is one unique area within the country where there is abundance of bee swarms. It hasbeen used as a source of bees over the years for stocking empty hives. The area lies within the expansive landbelonging to KARI Naivasha and enjoys the natural habitat extending to Lake Naivasha. A lot of wild game isalso found within the same habitat.

During the year under review, many catcher boxes were hanged and after being occupied translocated tovarious parts of the country. Some of the places which benefited from the source included farmers, governmentdemonstration centres and the National Beekeeping Station bulking site. Plans are underway to set up atraining apiary in Naivasha. A site has already been identified and work should start as soon as the funds are

27

available. Other activities which were carried out in Naivasha included cleaning of the catcher boxes,inspection of the hives which are yet to be translocated to the new site once it is set up.

4.2.10 RECOMMENDATION AND CONCLUSION

There is need for further rehabilitation of both Ngong and Olooseos apiaries because they will in future be thebest for carrying out research, training and demonstrations. The problem of waxmoth also needs to beaddressed since it has become a threat to the section.

4.3 BEE BOTANY UNIT

The unit continued to nurture the tree nursery at the National Beekeeping Station. The nursery helpsinterested visitors at the Station to know the bee plants that are available in the country. This is especiallyboosted by the dried/mounted bee plants in the herbarium room.

The bee plants are ordinary vegetations that are picked up due to their benefits to the bees and people such asnectar, pollen, propolis among others.

NO. SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME USES

1 Dovyalis caffra Kei-apple Nectar/pollen

2 Helianthus annus Sunflower Nectar/pollen

3 Citrus sinensis Orange Nectar/pollen

4 Psidium guava Guava Nectar/pollen

5 Persia Americana Avocado Nectar/pollen

6 Gravillea robusta Silky oak Nectar/pollen

7 Passiflora spp. Passion fruit Nectar/pollen

8 Acacia mellifera Hook thorn Nectar/pollen

9 Croton megalocarpus Croton Nectar/pollen

10 Eucalyptus spp. Eucalyptus Nectar/pollen

11 Citrus lemon Lemon Nectar/pollen

12 Mangifera indica Mango Nectar/pollen

28

13 Eryobotra japonica Loquat Nectar/pollen

14 Leucaena Lucaena Nectar/pollen

15 Oscimum spp. Oscimum Nectar/pollen

Oscimum was planted near the forest apiary to boost bee attraction to the surrounding hives. This was donenext to the apiary in the forest, but due to the shortage of rain few of them got established even after irrigatingthem. It is hoped that more effort will be put in the future to see that the place surrounding the apiary is stockedwith enough of forage crops.

4.4 BEE HEALTH AND INVESTIGATION UNIT

There were no major pest problems in Lenana apiaries including Ngong. However wax moth continued to be a

challenge with many colonies absconding from the hives, especially those which were brought from Naivasha.Sugar ants and beetles were also of major concern in the hives.

Reports of similar cases were also reported from outreach farmers. Some suspected cases of varroa miteswere reported which requires serious and urgent investigations.

29

5.0 HIVE PRODUCTS AND QUALITY ASSURANCE SECTION

The hive products and quality assurance is generally responsible in handling of hive products and giving

appropriate advisory services aimed at ensuring and promoting use or consumption of the same. The majorbeneficiaries in this area include; farmers, traders, individual consumers, herbalists and all those who utilizehive products in one way or another.

The year 2008 remained quite busy. The demand for quality hive products has been on the increase. A partfrom routine activities, the section was involved in trainings and providing advisory services on all the issuesregarding quality and utilisation of hive products.

Prices and supply of honey remained constant throughout the year. A number of farmers and the generalpublic popped in for consultations on specific areas of their concern. See table 2. Other value added productssuch as soap, propolis in honey/soya, propolis ointment, body cream has continued to generate someconsiderable attention due to their medicinal/curative properties associated with such products. A new Propolissyrup was also introduced along side the above products. The section also received a substantial number of

equipments through the ALLPRO programme.

5.1 HIVE PRODUCTS QUALITY ASSURANCE UNIT

The unit is a key one within the station mandated to carry out analysis of hive products, mainly honey andbeeswax brought in by farmers, consumers and traders. It also undertakes periodic honey quality surveys inorder to asses the quality of the same along the distribution channel. However, there was one honey qualitysurvey that was conducted in the year under review.

5.1.1 SAMPLE ANALYSIS

The unit remained relatively busy throughout the year, and realised a slight increase in the number of samplesreceived and analysed. A total number of 220 samples were analysed, an increase of 11% from the previousyear. 88% of the samples originated from Tanzania, 6.4% from Kenya, 0.5% from Sudan and the origin ofabout 2% was not ascertained. Details of the source and analysis results of some of the samples brought in forroutine analysis are as shown below.

30

Origin Name and address of Packer MoistureContent (%)

TotalReducingSugars(%)

ApparentSucrose (%)

AcidityMg/Kg

HMF

Mg/Kg

HoneyColour

HoneyCondition

Remarks

Tanzania Makambu Honey Refineries , Box 60085, Nib 17.2 75.4 1.3 36 6.0 Dark amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Premier Foods 18.8 70.7 1.0 38 2.0 Dark amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Canaan Packers 17.2 74.3 1.0 35 11.52 Dark amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Jabezi Honey Packers 17.2 75.4 0.5 35 23.04 Dark amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Bio Foods Products, Box 27623, Nairobi. 16.8 77 1.4 25 3.87 Light amber Partiallycrystallized

Pass

Tanzania Makambu Honey Refineries , Box 60085, Nib 17.8 71.7 1.4 35 11.52 Dark amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Premier Foods 19.0 71.43 2.46 33 172.8 Dark amber Liquid Fail

Tanzania Gatanza Enterprises 18.6 70.42 0.5 36 576 Dark amber Liquid Fail

Tanzania Nut-Ro Foods Box 11763- 00100, Nib 17.6 70.16 0.23 26 3.84 Dark amber Liquid Pass



Kitui Kitui Family Honey, Box 11825 – 00400 NBI 16.6 72.99 0.81 38 11.52 Light amber Liquid Pass

Sudan Lulu Life Pure Bee Hive Natural Honey 16.4 72.99 0.54 19 1.92 Amber Liquid Pass



Tanzania Ngugi 17.8 70.5 4.0 35 36.44 Dark amber Liquid Pass

Nyeri Githiru Beekeepers &Agroforestry Self HelpGroup, Box 350, Nyeri.

18.6 74.6 2.4 36 5.76 Light amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Kitengela Pure Honey Centre Box, 1982,MKS.

16.8 71.43 0.51 2.5 23.04 Amber Liquid Pass

31

Tanzania Premier Foods 19.4 69.20 1.72 38 40.32 Amber Liquid Fail

Tanzania Premier Foods 18.2 70.92 1.61 33 11.52 Amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Bio Foods Products 17.4 72.20 0.53 25 19.2 Amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Makambu Honey Refineries , Box 60085, Nib 18.0 71 3.5 32 20.96 Amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Bio Foods Products Ltd Box 27623 NBI. 16.0 75.4 3.6 30 23.96 Light amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Bio Foods Products Ltd Box 27623 NBI. 18.0 72.5 3.5 31 29.26 Amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Covenant Investment Agencies Box 4316-00200 NBI

16.8 73.53 0.82 22 0.92 Light amber Liquid Pass

Baringo Kagio 15 73.5 3.6 35 20.96 Amber Liquid Pass

Baringo Kagio 17.6 74 3.8 30 23.12 Light amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Bio Foods Products Ltd Box 27623 NBI. 18 85.47 2.25 32 19.2 Amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Bio Foods Products Ltd Box 27623 NBI. 19.4 75.47 3.27 20 11.52 Amber Liquid Pass


Tanzania Premier Foods 21.0 65 4.5 40 19.32 Dark amber Liquid Fail

Tanzania Makambu Honey Refineries , Box 60085, Nib 19.2 72.5 4.5 35 23.04 Amber Liquid Pass


Tanzania Unknown 17.4 73.2 3.5 35 19.32 Amber Liquid Pass

Tanzania Premier Foods 20 71.43 1.03 26 9.6 Amber Liquid Fail

Tanzania Makambu Honey Refineries , Box 60085, Nib 18.6 72.2 3.85 31 - Dark amber Liquid Pass

Mbeere My Honey

Rad Enterprises Box 3633 - 00506, NBI

P. O. Box 3633 - 00506, NBI

17.6 74.4 3.2 30 Amber Liquid Pass

32

Out of the total samples received in the laboratory for routine analysis, 91.4% passed in all theparameters tested. 8.6 failed in at least one parameter with 7.7% failing because of high moisturecontent while 0.9% failed in HMF. Unlike the previous year where most of the failures were due to

HMF

5.1.2 CONSTRAINTS

The major constraint within the unit remains the inadequacy of trained personnel. Replacement ofsome obsolete equipment in the laboratory has begun and this will go along way in ensuring thatservices will now improve. However, much is required to upgrade some of the analytical procedures

involving use of chemicals to minimize error and improve human safety.

5.1.3 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

From the trends observed over the years, it can be concluded that the bulk of the honey consumed inKenya originate mainly from Tanzania. This indeed is a disturbing trend and requires special attentionto encourage local honey production.

Samples that failed in the analysis were mainly due to high moisture content and HMF. It is thereforerecommended that this area needs to be addressed especially during trainings and or field days toequip traders and farmers with the right skills and information regarding honey handling.

5.2 HIVE PRODUCTS UTILISATION AND APITHERAPY

5.2.1 APITHERAPY

This unit was busy with farmers and students interested in learning or knowing more on apitherapy. Itis mandated with providing information on and making of value added products that are utilized for

treatment of various ailments. Hive products such as royal jelly and bee venom were not utilized sincethe technology involved in harvesting and processing is not available in the station.

5.2.2 HONEY

Honey mixtures (honey mixed with other items) were also prepared and this occurred mostly duringtraining sessions. The honey mixture included the following:-

I. Cough mixture

II. Arthritis & Asthma mixtures

These preparations have been found to be effective in the control of coughs and colds.

33

5.2.3 PROPOLIS

The following propolis preparations were made

I. Propolis Ointment

II. Propolis in Soya

III. Propolis in Honey

IV. Propolis Syrup

Increase in the utilisation of propolis in honey, soya, syrup and propolis ointment was observed. Thiswas generally due to a number of infections occurring in various parts of the body such as

inflammation of the skin (ringworms), athlete’s foot, herpes of the skin, mouth ulcers, coughs, coldsand so on. Raw propolis was also utilised but has a characteristic of sticking on the teeth surfacewhen chewed.

5.2.4 POLLEN, BEESWAX, ROYAL JELLY AND BEE VENOM

A number of people showed interest in consumption of pollen due to its high nutritive value. Bees wax

therapy was virtually absent. Other bee products such as royal jelly and bee venom were not utilisedeither as the technology involved in harvesting or preservation is not available. Displays of all theseproducts were done during the Nairobi show as well as value added products from honey andpropolis. Brochures for cough asthma and arthritis were also provided.

The unit intends to introduce new products such as propolis tincture and anti-dandruff cream. Theformer is believed to be effective in the treatment of soar throat, mouth ulcers, control of laryngitis and

pharyngitis.

5.2.5 CONSTRAINTS

Since these products are highly sensitive and require trained personnel, it is unfortunate that the unitlacks one. Lack of appropriate equipment, production and availability of raw material has also provedto be a major drawback.

5.3 HONEY PROCESSING AND MARKETING UNIT

5.3.1 INTRODUCTION

This unit witnessed farmers and traders coming to consult on processing of honey and beeswax.Training of farmers during the monthly trainings conducted at the station was also carried out.

34

5.3.2 HONEY PROCESSED IN THE STATION

Date Name Honey Processed(Kgs)

10/1/2008 St. Elizabeth Academy 47



Total 123

Some little honey was harvested from the station’s apiaries and this was used for demonstrationpurposes during the monthly trainings.

5.3.3 CONSULTATIONS ON HIVE PRODUCTS

Various consultations were made at the station concerning hive product processing.

Date Name Address Purpose

17/1/2008 Ann Kabue Nairobi Processing/ Packaging

29/1/2008 Benard Muchiri Nyeri Extraction/ Marketing

8/2/2008 George Muthama Nairobi Beeswax Processing

3/3/2008 Moses Okwaro Nairobi Honey Extraction

6/3/2008 St. Elizabeth Academy Nairobi Honey Beeswax Processing & Equipments.

9/3/2008 KIRDI Nairobi Honey Processing & Marketing

17/4/2008 Virginia Mumbi Kiambu Honey & Beeswax Processing

17/4/2008 Gladys Wamukuna Naivasha Honey Extraction

8/5/2008 Maingi Kubai Nakuru Beeswax Processing

30/5/2008 Alfred Musyoka Kitui Honey Marketing

35

20/6/2008 Lucy Ngare Nairobi Beeswax Marketing

10/7/2008 Mrs. Stewcut Nairobi Honey Marketing

7/8/2008 Kenneth Mutora Limuru Honey Marketing

29/8/2008 Charles Mburi Muranga Honey Marketing

11/9/2008 Macharia Githiomi Nairobi Honey Processing & Marketing

24/10/2008 Christopher Kamau Moyale Honey Processing & Equipments

24/11/2008 Josphine Wambui Busia Honey Processing & Marketing

25/11/2008 Lt. Col. Francis Kibichu Kirinyaga Honey & Beeswax

5.3.4 MARKETING UNIT

Demand for hive products outweighed supply, despite the skyrocketing of prices. However, honeyfrom Tanzania was readily available to meet the increasing demand. The major honey outletsremained as the previous years and these include; supermarkets, national beekeeping station, ICIPEamong others. The other hive products were sold informally amongst traders and middlemen at thefarm level.

5.3.5 PRICING

Prices of semi refined honey remained relatively stable kshs. @150- 250 per kg due to theavailability and influx of the same from Tanzania. Prices of beeswax went up by about 50% and wasretailing between kshs. 250- 500 per kg while that for both pollen and propolis remained constant @kshs. 5 per gm.

5.3.6 HONEY MARKET SURVEY

Honey market and quality survey was conducted in eastern and south rift parts of the countryincluding Nairobi. This exercise was important to asses how products are presented and offertechnical advice where possible. Five districts were visited; namely Mwingi, Machakos, Kitui, Mbeere,Nairobi, Kajiado, Loitoktok, Makueni and Embu districts. Sixty six honey samples were collected for

analysis to ascertain their quality status.

36

5.3.7 SOME RELIABLE HONEY DEALERS/PACKERS IN KENYA

Name of Dealer/Packer Address e- mail address Tel. no Weight (tonnage/year)

Baraka Agricultural College P.O. Box 521, Molo. [email protected] 721091 5

Icier ( Eco- Honey) P.O. Box 30772, Nairobi. - 802501 10

Honey Care Africa P.O. Box 24487, Nairobi. [email protected]. 5742148 10

Kamurugu Agricultural DevelopmentInitiatives

P.O. Box 202, Embu. [email protected] 06821427/72 5

Kenya Beekeepers Association P.O. Box 34188, Nairobi. - 020- 3864301/2 10

Africa Beekeepers Limited P.O. Box 3752- 00506,Nairobi.

[email protected] 020-2060685/2022586

5

Kerio Valley Dev. Authority P.O. Box 2660, Eldoret. [email protected]. 053- 263361/2 5

Pure Health P.O. Box 12767, Nairobi. - 0724224222 15

Green Forest Foods P.O. Box 18870- 00200,Nairobi.

[email protected]. 0722704823 15

Real Honey Limited P.O. Box 70214- 00400,Nairobi.

[email protected]. 020-2034843 10

Nasali Honey P.O. Box 785- 00609, [email protected]. 0721353753 10

37

Nairobi.

Makambu Investments P.O. Box 60085, Nairobi. - 0722886443 10

Gatanza Enterprises P.O. Box 20548, Nairobi. [email protected]. 0722520968 5

Zipton Products P.O. Box 67222- 00200,Nairobi.

[email protected]. 0722244088 5

Canaan Gardens P.O. Box 1744, Embu. - 068- 30964 5

5.3.8 EXPORT AND IMPORT DATA FOR HONEY & BEESWAX

HONEY

EXPORTS IMPORTS

Year Quantity (kg) Value (kshs.) Average (kshs.) Quantity (kg) Value (kshs.) Average unit price (kshs.)

2002 337 68,300 202.70 52,320 7,070,099 135.13

2003 284 92,635 326.20 9,988 2,113,996 211.65

2004 8760 860,028 98.20 83,628 5,251,793 62.80

2005 2256 310,635 137.70 81,119 10,034,151 123.70

2006 4036 571,094 141.50 94,209 10,947,086 116.20

38

BEESWAX

EXPORTS IMPORTS

Year Quantity (kg) Value (kshs.) Average (kshs.) Quantity (kg) Value (kshs.) Average unit price (kshs.)

2002 305 80,000 262.30 370 139,794 377.80

2003 - - - 1,182 347,494 294

2004 10,301 1,475,520 143.24 1,556 255,067 163.90

2005 6,714 1,460,966 217.60 1,836 351,410 191.40

2006 11,216 2,716,515 242.20 2,314 468,585 202.50

Source: Centre for business information in Kenya, CPC.

6 . 0 S U P P LI E S S E R V I C E S

6.1 INTRODUCTION

In the year 2008, supplies functions were carried out as usual. Most items were purchased for thefarmer’s hostel. Other deliveries of goods were made from ALLPRO/ASAL project based at Hill Plaza.

Servicing and repair of machines were carried out. However, no purchase of raw materials forproduction was done due to lack of funds for the same.

6.1.1 GOODS AND SERVICES PROCURED IN THE YEAR 2008

The following items were procured.

ITEM ACCOUNT SOURCE

Repair and service of vehicles Transport Ken Motors AgenciesCash Imprest

Petrol Transport Uja Petrol StationCash Imprest

Laboratory items and equipment Fungicide – laboratory

material DLP/Hill PlazaASAL project

Various Suppliers

Stationery Stationery – ASAL Project Various Suppliers

Fridge 8.5 C/Freezer

Deep Freezer 16.5 C refrigerationMicro wave 30 ltsBeds, Beddings and cutting

DLP Hill Plaza

Various Suppliers

Laboratory items Fungicides, Lab materialsDLP

ASAL Project

M/s Mwaroga EntM/s Jagla Ent

Training Items Training Cash Imprest

Maintenance Items

-Repair of Machines

Maintenance of plant and

equipment

M/s Gwamuji Ent.

PrintersComputers

ADB Projects Various suppliers

40

7.0 TRANSPORT SERVICES

The station has a number of vehicles in various conditions. There are three operational vehicles and

two drivers. Details of vehicles are as shown below:-

7.1 THE LIST OF VEHICLES AND OTHER CONDITIONS

VEHICLE NUMBERS MODEL/TYPE YEAR OFMANUFACTURE

VEHICLE CONDITION ASPER DECEMBER 2006

GK 738 R Saloon Peugeot 1977 Boarded

GK Z 635 Subaru legacy 1990 Serviceable

GK N 514 Toyota Hillux Pick

up

1989 Serviceable

GK 894 W Land Rover SWB 1979 Transferred to Marimba farm

Meru 1996 but still lies at

Nairobi.

GK A 059 B Isuzu Lorry FVR 1999 Serviceable

KAG 132H Mercedes Benz Serviceable

41

8 . 0 A C C O U NT S S E C T IO N

There was decline in the area of appropriation in aid collection. This year the station was able to

collect only Kshs.285, 765.

ITEM QUANTITY UNIT PRICE (KSHS) TOTAL COST (KSHS)

1. Kenya Top Bar Hive 2 3000 6,000.00

2. Catcher box 1 850 850.00

3. Langstroth hive NIL NIL NIL

4. Box Hive NIL NIL NIL

5. Top bar 20 30 600.00

6. Observation hive NIL NIL NIL

7. Feeder box 4 280 1,120.00

8. Queen excluder 10 150 1,500.00

9. Hive tool 7 100 700.00

10. Bee brush 20 50 1,000.00

11. Smoker 1 750 750.00

12. Bee veil 12 500 6,000.00

13. Pair of gloves 22 600 13,200.00

14. Bee suit 17 1900 32,300.00

15. Honey straining cloth NIL NIL NIL

16. Cotton wax straining bag. 1 150 150.00

17. Bee farming hand book NIL NIL NIL

18. Honey analysis 36 2000 72,000.00

19. Training charges 140(persons)

1000 140,000.00

20. Extraction of honey 76kg 10 760.00

21. Honey (Refined) NIL NIL NIL

22. Comb Honey NIL NIL NIL

23. Video NIL NIL NIL

24. Training books NIL NIL NIL

25. Servicing of Top Bar Hives & Smokers 26 - 8,560.00

TOTAL 285,765.00

42

8.1 RECOMMENDATIONS

The following should be noted and improved.

i) Provide better and new machines in all production units. The available ones are too old.

ii) Employ enough manpower.

iii) Provide a revolving fund mainly for the workshops.

iv) All the raw materials required should be available throughout the year.

43

9 . 0 V I S I TO R S

DATE NAME OF VISITOR ADDRESS

30-01-2008 Samuel Mwau P. O. Box 7112, Kabati, Kitui.

07-01-2008 Chris Marura JKUAT – Nairobi

30-01-2008 Edith K. Muthigani P. O. Box 76036-00508, Nairobi

30-01-2008 Lilian W. Kimani P. O. Box 53947-00200, Nairobi

06-02-2008 Daniel Karanja P. O. Box 633-00621, Nairobi

06-02-2008 Peter Karanja P. O. Box 633-00621, Nairobi

11-02-2008 Priscilla Muirini Kilimo House – Nairobi

19-02-2008 Peter Karuthiru NPC – Ngong

22-02-2008 I. C. Kiplagat Dairy Training Institute – Naivasha

03-03-2008 Fridah Kamene P. O. Box 599-60200, Meru

03-03-2008 Joseph M. Ringera P. O. Box 599-60200, Meru

07-03-2008 David M. Musyoki P. O. Box226, Makueni

07-03-2008 Peter Mwaura Gathiongo AHITI – Kabete

12-03-2008 Emmanuel Mae Karisa P. O. Box 267, Lamu

28-03-2008 John Mary Home Northcote, Deppers Bridge, Southam CV472SU. U.K

28-03-2008 Roger Molera P. O. Box 6849-00200, Nairobi

11-04-2008 Hon. J. K. Kiliku P. O. Box 89110, Mombasa

14-04-2008 Emily M. Gatuguta P. O. Box 79774-00200, Nairobi

09-07-2008 Peter Mururu P. O. Box 20895-00202, Nairobi

29-08-2008 Timothy Mutungi P. O. Box 74294-00200, Nairobi

02-09-2008 Takahata R. Ogawa JAICAF (Japanese NPO)

03-09-2008 H. K. Mwatha JAICAF (Japanese NPO)

23-10-2008 Jackson Mutemi P. O. Box 16029-GPO, Nairobi

23-10-2008 Jacintah Karenge P. O. Box 385105, Nairobi

23-10-2008 Moses Mutua P. O. Box 16029 00100, Nairobi

29-10-2008 John N. Kariuki P. O. Box 25, Naivasha

22-12-2008 Alnashir Nathoo P. O. Box 82594, Mombasa

22-12-2008 Continental Hemes P. O. Box 82594, Mombasa

44

10.0 GOODS & SERVICES OFFERED AT THE STATIONGOODS

ITEM UNIT (KSHS) PER

1. Kenya Top Bar Hive 3,000.00 One

2. Box hive) 4,000.00 One

3. Langstroth Hive 4,500.00 One

4. Super box 1,000.00 One

5. Clearer board 600.00 One

6. Catcher Box 850.00 One

7. Feeder Box 280.00 One

8. Queen Excluder (KTBH/Langstroth) 150.00 One

9. Hive Tool 100.00 One

10. Bee Brush 50.00 One

11. Top Bar 50.00 One

12. Smoker 750.00 One

13. Solar Wax Melter 1,200.00 One

14. Protective kit ( Complete) 3,000.00 One

a) Bee Gloves 600.00 Pair

b) Bee Veil 500.00 One

c) Bee Coverall 1,900.00 One

15. Polyester bee protective kit (Complete) 1,200.00 One

16. Honey Straining Cloth 250.00 One

17. Cotton wax straining bag 150.00 One

18. Video tape 500.00 One

19. Training Book 500.00 One

20. Beekeepers’ Guidebook 1,500.00 One

21. Value added products 100.00 package

22. Honey (Refined) 300.00 Kg

23. Comb Honey per kg 500.00 Kg

24. Honeybee colony sale 1,000.00 Colony

SERVICES

Training Charges per week( farmers) 1000.00 Person

Staff training ( 2 weeks) 5000.00 person

Honey Analysis Charges 2,000.00 Per sample

Pollination charges/colony for 3 months 2,000.00 Per colony

FOR ANY INQUIRIES CONTACT: THE OFFICER-IN-CHARGE

NATIONAL BEEKEEPING STATIONP.O. BOX 34188-00100, NAIROBI.

TEL.NO.0202044797/8

Documents

annual report on beekeepin