Concluding the recent webinar celebrating World Bee Day 2026, Motlatjo Makaepea, Chief Director of the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, used his closing remarks to shift the conversation beyond celebration towards the future growth of South Africa’s beekeeping sector, highlighting stronger partnerships, support for emerging beekeepers and greater awareness of the wider economic opportunities linked to pollination.
By Maphuti Mongatane, Business Development Manager at African Farming
Makaepea said the role of bees extends far beyond environmental conservation and has a direct impacts on livelihoods, food security and sustainable agricultural development.
Beekeeping is about more than honey
Makaepea highlighted that many people continue to view beekeeping narrowly through the lens of honey production, while significant opportunities exist throughout the broader value chain.
“It is not only about the environment,” he said. “It is also about livelihoods and commercial opportunities that exist within this value chain.”
He further noted an important point raised during the webinar – that honey itself represents only one part of a much larger ecosystem driven by pollination services and agricultural productivity. Pollination continues to play a critical role in supporting crop production and broader agricultural sustainability.
Also read: ‘Without bees, there is no agriculture!’ – World Bee Day 2026 webinar
Support for emerging beekeepers gaining momentum
Makaepea also highlighted ongoing work aimed at growing participation in the sector, particularly among emerging beekeepers.
He acknowledged programmes by the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development focused on supporting women and upcoming beekeepers through training initiatives, hive distribution and capacity-building programmes.
“We are grateful to see the number of beekeepers growing steadily,” he said while recognising the efforts of teams working behind the scenes to support new entrants into the industry.
The growth of emerging beekeepers is increasingly viewed as an opportunity not only to create livelihoods but also to strengthen agricultural value chains and local economies.
Also read: Bees: The farmers of the sky
Collaboration remains key
Makaepea also praised the growing collaboration between government departments, researchers, industry bodies, educators and beekeepers in strengthening the sector. He recognised the role of various institutions and stakeholders working together to increase awareness and support sustainable development within beekeeping.
He noted that long-term growth would require continued cooperation, stronger awareness campaigns and greater investment in people entering the industry.
Also read:
Bees add billions to South Africa’s crop value
Building a sustainable future for bees, beekeepers and biodiversity
Healing through honey: Lulu Letlape, SA’s beekeeping powerhouse
‘My first bee farming experience was a disaster’ – Boitumelo Tau
