agriculture 4 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Budaka Women Receive Shs34 Million Boost for Beekeeping Project
Women farmers in Budaka District have received modern beehives valued at Shs34 million under a smart agriculture initiative designed to enhance climate-resilient livelihoods and diversify household incomes. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/budaka-women-receive-shs34m-beekeeping-boost-under-smart-agriculture-project-5485730
In a move to bolster rural incomes and promote sustainable agriculture, women farmers in Budaka District have been equipped with modern beekeeping equipment worth Shs34 million. The initiative, part of a smart agriculture project, aims to introduce climate-resilient livelihood options and diversify household earnings in communities grappling with unpredictable weather and declining crop yields.
The new beehives were distributed to women’s groups in Mugiti Sub-county, specifically in Bwikomba II Village. Beneficiaries have undergone training in contemporary beekeeping techniques to ensure the project’s success. Local leaders, including Mugiti Sub-county Extension Officer Geoffrey Ibere, have encouraged broader community participation in such programs, highlighting the potential for financial empowerment and poverty reduction.
This project addresses the vulnerability of households heavily reliant on traditional agriculture. Beekeeping is presented as a viable alternative income stream, generating revenue from honey and other bee products, which can complement existing farming activities. Officials emphasized the high market potential for bee products.
The smart agriculture program operates on a cost-sharing model, with beneficiaries contributing 20 percent of project costs and the government covering the remaining 80 percent. Budaka District is currently implementing 69 projects across 20 sub-counties, including crop production, apiaries, and black soldier fly enterprises.
Beneficiary groups, like the Bwikomba Passion Growers Association, have demonstrated commitment by contributing their share of co-funding. The chairperson of the association, Harriet Alugat, noted that beekeeping is perceived as more profitable than other agricultural ventures. Leaders urged transparency and accountability among the women’s groups to ensure the long-term sustainability of the investment and to maximize the tangible benefits for the community.