In the heart of Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement in Northern Uganda, a quiet transformation is buzzing—one hive at a time. The Lodrega Youth Association, a group of 36 young people (30 from the host community and six refugees), has found a new path to self-reliance and unity through modern beekeeping.

Thanks to the collaboration between AIRD and Blessed Bee for Life Trade Post Company Ltd, these young men and women have gained essential skills in hive management, honey production, and environmental conservation. Equipped with 67 beehives, they are not only producing honey but also building stronger community ties, boosting their economic prospects, and contributing to food security.

From Training to Transformation

Before AIRD’s intervention, many of these youths struggled with unemployment and economic uncertainty. The training provided them with practical skills in:

✅ Hive care and maintenance
✅ Honey production and processing
✅ Bee preservation and environmental conservation
✅ Pest and disease management
✅ Bee behavior and safety
✅ Beekeeping as a business

These skills are now empowering the youth to turn beekeeping into a sustainable livelihood. AIRD has also played a critical role in connecting the association to potential honey buyers, ensuring that their efforts result in tangible economic benefits.

Beekeeping for Peace and Prosperity

Beyond the financial rewards, beekeeping has fostered peaceful coexistence between refugees and host communities. Working together toward a shared goal has strengthened relationships, built trust, and encouraged cooperation.

Moreover, the project contributes to environmental conservation, as participants have learned the importance of bees in pollination and biodiversity. By preserving the natural habitat and adopting responsible beekeeping practices, they are also ensuring a healthier ecosystem for future generations.

A Brighter Future

With steady honey production and a growing market, the Lodrega Youth Association is now on the path to economic independence. Many members have begun saving money, supporting their families, and even reinvesting in additional hives to expand their production.

One participant, John, shared his excitement:
“Before this project, I had no job and no stable income. Now, I see a future in beekeeping. We are not just making honey; we are building a better life for ourselves and our community.”

This initiative is a testament to the power of skills development, partnership, and sustainable livelihoods. Through beekeeping, young people in Bidi Bidi are rewriting their future—one drop of honey at a time.