Extent of adoption of beekeeping technologies among small scale farmers in Karangura sub-county Kabarole district

Abstract

This study set out to assess the extent of adoption of beekeeping technologies among small-scale farmers in Karangura sub-county, Kabarole District. The research aimed at identifying the types of beekeeping technologies utilized, determining preferred honeybee forage species, and examining both the opportunities and challenges associated with adopting modern beekeeping practices. A total of 90 respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that 47% of farmers practiced both modern and traditional beekeeping methods, while 33% relied solely on traditional methods and 20% used modern methods of beekeeping alone. Kenya Top Bar (KTB) hives were the most commonly owned (47%), followed by log and bamboo hives (each at 21%). Most farmers (64%) had access to trainings, while 61% relied on radios and televisions for beekeeping information. About 38% cited long distances as a barrier to attending trainings, and 35% mentioned lack of nearby training centres. Furthermore, 71% had never received government support for beekeeping, with the Parish Development Model fund being the most cited form of support (58%) among those who had. In terms of forage, 99% of respondents knew about bee forage, with coffee (47%), eucalyptus (18%), and Calliandra carlothyrsus (13.%) being the most common plants grown as bee forage species. Still, only 37% of farmers provided supplementary forage, mainly cassava flour (70%). Majority of respondents assessed forage visually (62%) and practiced basic management such as weeding (28%) and planting (27%). The dry season was the leading constraint to forage availability, affecting over half of the farmers (57%). the key challenges limiting adoption of modern technologies included lack of awareness (48%) and financial constraints (26%). Although 78% of respondents were willing to recommend modern technologies, some still preferred traditional methods, citing better productivity and swarm capture. These findings reveal a moderate level of adoption, influenced more by affordability and access than by awareness alone. While there is willingness to embrace modern practices, practical limitations such as cost and inadequate support systems continue to hinder progress. It is recommended that stakeholders should invest in localized training, subsidize modern hive equipment, and strengthen extension services to improve adoption.