MAPUTO, July 28 (Xinhua) -- Mozambican authorities have launched a beekeeping project near Magoe National Park in Tete Province to produce 100 tonnes of honey annually, while reducing human-wildlife conflict and promoting sustainable livelihoods for nearby communities, local media reported on Monday.
According to Mozambique's state news agency AIM, the Community Economic Empowerment Project, with a budget of 20 million meticais (about 316,105 U.S. dollars), is being implemented in the buffer zone of the park. The project includes the installation of 4,000 beehives, training programs for community members, and the establishment of a honey processing facility.
Nelson Antonio, director of the Technical and Financial Assistance Services of the Zambezi Valley Development Agency, revealed that the initiative serves to generate income and act as a natural deterrent to elephants.
"Elephants are afraid of bees. Studies show they avoid areas with hives because bee stings to sensitive areas such as the eyes, trunk, and ears are extremely painful," he said.
"By placing hives along fences surrounding farmland, we create a living barrier. If an elephant touches the fence and disturbs the bees, it will retreat, thus helping prevent crop damage," Antonio explained.
Antonio also noted that the project provides alternative economic opportunities, reducing the reliance on unsustainable practices such as poaching and illegal logging within protected areas.
"With sustainable sources of income, communities are less likely to engage in illegal wildlife hunting," he added.
Mozambican Secretary of State for Marine Affairs and Fisheries Momade Juizo emphasized the project's social impact, noting that about 500,000 households are expected to benefit from it.
