Beehives Project

Led by Camella Meleki

Camella Meleki is a 43-year-old widow, mother of three, and peasant farmer in the Chamatete Garden community. Before the beehives arrived, honey wasn’t part of her household income at all. Now she brews Mbote, a local beer made from honey, and sells it as a source of living. “We are very grateful for this project,” she says, “because it has brought hope and opportunities to our community.”

An income that protects the forest it comes from

“Through beekeeping, we will be able to harvest honey and sell it to earn an income for our families,” Camella says. “The money we make will help us send our children to school, buy school uniforms, and provide other basic needs at home.” It isn’t only about the money. “This project is not only helping us financially, but it is also teaching us valuable skills and encouraging us to work together as a community.”

Rules that protect the hives, and the forest with them

The hives need to be safe from fire, so everyone in the surrounding areas now knows to be careful when burning their fields. The hives also need to be placed in trees, and because the community knows where they are, there is no cutting those trees for charcoal. Protecting the bees means protecting the forest around them too.

“We sincerely appreciate the support and opportunities that By Life Connected has linked us to,” Camella says. “The project is changing lives and creating a better future for our families and children.”