The project strengthened the already existing relationships between producer groups and processors, and supported the construction of bulking centres to provide easy access to markets for honey and honey products. Before the project, beekeepers used to keep honey in whatever containers they would get and incur costs in transporting honey long distances looking for the buyers. Now, in communities with bulking centres, the honey is sold within the communities and prices are negotiated. The honey producers, 30% of whom are women, are also being trained to improve productivity and quality. Resources have also been distributed to beekeepers, including beehives and equipment to test honey quality in terms of moisture.

 Results

• 18 bulking centres have been constructed, and communities made contributions in kind to the construction which helped create a level of ownership and an interest to maintain the facilities. The bulking centres contribute to improved quality, access to markets, and reduced transaction costs.
• 6,580 beekeepers (30% women) have been trained in apiary management. 
• Resources distributed to beekeepers included 5,638 modern beehives, 4,000 sets of protective clothing, 5,000 harvest and storage buckets, and 2,000 smokers.
• 11 processors are currently in the supply chain. These processors have provided more market alternatives for producers, thereby simulating production and competition.
• 22 forest officers and 6 farmers were trained in Geographic Information System (GIS) data collection, and a GIS database was established at the Zambia Forestry College.
• 3 women’s groups and one youth beekeeping group have been supported by the project.
• 8 processors participated in the Luano Agriculture show 2015, which contributed to the visibility and marketing of Zambian honey on the local market.