Rwentumba Communal Land Association conservation journey through beekeeping

What the report says

In Masindi District, western Uganda, members of the Rwentumba Communal Land Association are restoring a previously degraded community forest while building income through modern beekeeping, according to The Independent Uganda. The effort is centered in Rwentumba Village, Kimanya Parish, around a forest named for the River Rwentumba, which feeds into Lake Albert.

The report says the association was formed after residents were mobilized and sensitized about the value of protecting natural forests instead of clearing land for farming. With support from the Environmental Conservation Trust of Uganda (ECOTRUST) through the Mobilizing More 4 Climate initiative, the group examined different livelihood options before choosing beekeeping. Members reportedly had some existing knowledge of the practice and saw it as a lower-cost way to earn income while keeping the forest intact.

The project began in 2020 with 10 Kenya Top Bar hives and training in modern beekeeping. After early difficulties, including termite damage to hive stands, the group later received 100 Langstroth hives in 2023, bringing the total to 110. The article says the newer hives have improved production, with the community now trained in harvesting, processing and storing honey using protective gear and equipment to maintain quality.

The partnership has also created a market link through The Hive Limited, which buys the honey. Beyond income, residents say the restored forest has helped improve rainfall, nearby water levels and wildlife return. The story presents the project as an example of conservation and livelihoods being developed together, with local landowners sharing land for a longer-term environmental benefit.