By OBAKENG MAJE
8 July 2025- A beekeeper from Letlhapong village, near Taung, Nkululeko Kula (34), said even though he has not found his niche in the beekeeping industry, he is glad that his business is slowly becoming a commercial venture. Kula, who has employed three people thus far on a temporary basis, said his business involves managing beehives to produce and sell bee-related products like honey, pollen and beeswax.
He further said, he also offers cross-fertilisation services. Kula said success in beekeeping requires knowledge, dedication and careful management of the bees and their environment. Kula added that he is fortunate because he had acquired all that through his journey.
“I have knowledge and skills to encompass my business. I am also grateful for the unwavering support that I continue to receive from local people. So far, I do not have the market to supply my product to. However, I think things will soon change for the better.
“I was working for a beekeeping company in Kimberley and that is where I gained mentorship and hands-on practice. This is not an easy business because you need to understand bee biology, hive management, pest control, and honey harvesting techniques,” said Kula.
He said he is in need of a honey extractor, which is a mechanical device used in the extraction of honey from honeycombs. Kula said he sometimes struggles to extract honey as he does not have the right equipment.
“A 500g bottle of honey is available at R130. Those who need to buy honey can come to our village or contact me to purchase. I am still developing a marketing strategy to sell my products using online platforms, as I am only using local markets or direct sales to customers.
Meanwhile, the North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development spokesperson, Emelda Setlhako said: “We will embark on district beekeeping engagements across the province. The engagements will expand economic opportunities through apiculture.
“The department is pleased to announce that it will embark on district beekeeping engagements during the month of July 2025. The engagements will take place across all four districts of the province to support sustainable agricultural development, while promoting and expanding economic opportunities through apiculture (beekeeping).”
Setlhako said the objectives of these engagements is to raise awareness about the economic and ecological value of beekeeping, identifying the challenges faced by local beekeepers and cooperatives and further promoting knowledge sharing, skills transfer and training opportunities. She said the engagement will also assist in introducing support programs and funding avenues available through the department and to strengthen stakeholder collaboration for the growth of the beekeeping sector.
“The department encourages all interested individuals and beekeeping stakeholders to attend the sessions in their respective districts to share insights and contribute to shaping the future of apiculture in the North West,” said Setlhako.
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