The pilot project of an innovative bee-farming initiative that might possibly create endless job opportunities, this week got under way with the training of 17 former forestry workers to become bee farmers in the Wilderness National Park.

The project is already lauded as the new hope for communities that have been left jobless after the discontinuation of government pine forestry functions on the Garden Route a few years ago.

Trainees from forestry communities in Rheenendal, Karatara, Farleigh and Kraaibos yesterday said they were initially skeptical about the promises made regarding a community project that could creat money and jobs.

“So many promises have been broken in the past and we were also fearful of bees. We could not see how insects could make us money – my children expected me to come home from a day of training, stung by bees.

“But we were jobless and needed to try it anyway. We’ve been at training for only a few days, but we are already seeing hope and a better future ahead of us,” said Johanna Flink.

Godfrey Titus said apiculture expert Clay Whittal had taught them so many interesting things about bees, which made them confident enough to work with the insects.

“We are certain that we can make a success of this project.”

The training and introduction of about 300 hives in suitable areas within the park – where trainees can access them easily from their homes – is the first phase of a three-year project in which local communities will harvest honey and its by-products for the South African and international markets.

Training includes an initial beekeeping skills course, first aid and entrepreneurial skills as well as a nine-month programme with theoretical and practical components.

“Trainees will be given 15 training hives that should be in full production by the time the course is completed.

“We hope to receive grant money that will cover the purchase of another 85 hives, beekeeping clothing and equipment that bee-farmers can receive on successful completion of the course,” said Outeniqua Eco Hives chairman Michiel Burger.

The initiative – which involves several role players including SANParks, local business and several tertiary institutions – is funded and supported by several different institutions and grant systems.

The pilot project will start with harvesting of honey and propolis, but other products such as wax, venom and pollen can be added when appropriate.

Burger said South Africa consumed 3 000 tons of honey each year, of which 1 000 tons was imported mainly from China.

“Recent legislation also prohibits new import licences being issued, mainly because the quality of the imported honey was in question.

“The market for honey, and by-products such as propolis, beeswax and venom, continues to grow and South Africa needs to produce much more for local and possible international demands.”