Uasin Gishu County Deputy Governor H.E. Evans Kapkea attended the official handover of 390 beehives to 27 youth groups under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action Program (FLLoCA). The initiative aims to support 430 youth and empower them to generate income through honey production. The groups received beehives in Tapsagoi (110), Sergoit (170), and Kiplombe (110), along with harvesting gear.

H.E. Kapkea emphasized the importance of youth registration into groups, which he believes is key for empowerment programs. He encouraged other youth to join investment ventures and utilize the knowledge gained from the program. He also recommended incorporating Monitoring and Evaluation (MnE) and value addition for greater profitability.

“Horticulture and Agriculture diversification in agribusiness is the way to go from the traditional maize farming, short term produce such as French beans production, vegetables and fish farming also are great ventures that do not require a lot of land,” said H.E Kapkea.

Dr. Samm Kottut, CECM for Water, Irrigation, Sanitation, Energy, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, highlighted the program’s focus on water, agriculture, conservation, and resilience. He mentioned plans to establish a honey processing plant to add value to the honey produced.

Edward Sawe, CECM for Agriculture, Agri-Business, Livestock, and Fisheries, and Nickson Cheplong, C.O. for Livestock and Fisheries, also supported the youth’s efforts to undertake value addition to increase their income.

Mary Kerich, Chief Officer Energy, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate, noted the program’s transformative impact, particularly in enhancing livelihoods.

A single beehive can yield up to 30 kilograms of honey, with a potential income of Ksh. 800 to 1,000 per kilogram. For example, the Sergoit youth group, which received 170 beehives, could generate an annual income of Ksh. 170,000. Additionally, groups are encouraged to purchase harvesting gear and explore leasing to other beekeepers for extra income. The FLLoCA program includes follow-up training to help youth reinvest in and expand their projects.