Pre-Scaling Up of Modern Beekeeping Technology in Lowanaje Kebele of Dambal District, Sitti Zone, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia

Beekeeping in Ethiopia particularly in the Somali Region remains largely traditional, limiting both productivity and economic impact despite the country’s significant apicultural potential. Although Ethiopia ranks among Africa’s top honey producers, with over 10 million hives and approximately 2 million people engaged in the sector, more than 95% of beekeepers still rely on traditional hives. These yield only 5–7 kg of honey per hive annually, compared to 20–30 kg from modern box hives. The low productivity is attributed to limited access to improved technologies, inadequate management skills, and persistent challenges such as pests, diseases, and insufficient forage. To address these constraints, a participatory research project was implemented in Lowanaje Kebele, Dembel District, within the Somali Region a location with high beekeeping potential but no prior exposure to modern techniques. Twenty-five agro-pastoralists (80% male, 20% female) were organized into two Participatory Agro-Pastoral Research Groups (PAPREGs). They received 15 modern hives, essential beekeeping equipment, and comprehensive training on hive management, modern practices, and post-harvest handling. The Pre-Scaling Up of Modern Beekeeping yielded promising results. Modern hives produced an average of 17.9 kg of honey per hive annually more than double the yield from traditional hives (7 kg) and well above the national average. Participants also reported improvements in honey quality, ease of hive management, and overall perception of modern systems. A cost-benefit analysis revealed that, despite higher initial investment, modern hives offer superior profitability. Key challenges identified included the relatively high cost of modern equipment and the skill required for effective use. Nevertheless, participants widely acknowledged the advantages of modern hives in terms of productivity, product quality, and operational efficiency. Overall, the study demonstrates that participatory introduction and pre-scaling of modern beekeeping technologies can significantly enhance honey yields, increase rural incomes, and improve agro-pastoral livelihoods. To realize the full potential of Ethiopia’s beekeeping sector, the findings recommend scaling up modern hive dissemination, integrating continuous capacity-building programs, and strengthening institutional support particularly for women and marginalized groups to overcome adoption barriers and support sustainable development.