Beekeeping in Sikonge District, Tabora Region, plays a crucial role in reducing deforestation and preserving the region’s ecological balance, the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) Tanzania said on Tuesday.

In a statement, WWF—the world’s largest conservation organization dedicated to protecting natural resources—highlighted that beekeeping promotes forest conservation, as bees rely on diverse floral sources for nectar.

The organization noted that thousands of residents in Sikonge have transitioned from charcoal production, which had caused severe deforestation and environmental degradation, to beekeeping.

"Things started to change when the community began embracing beekeeping as a sustainable and lucrative alternative," the statement read.

WWF emphasized that the transition is more than just a change in livelihood—it represents a new hope for economic stability and environmental conservation. Beekeeping has not only provided new income opportunities but has also contributed to improving local livelihoods while protecting forests.

Charcoal production in Tanzania has long had a detrimental impact on the environment, primarily due to widespread tree-cutting, which leads to deforestation, soil erosion, degraded water sources, disrupted rainfall patterns, and loss of biodiversity.

Beekeeping in Tanzania is largely a forest-based activity, with most beekeepers operating in protected areas and general lands. It plays a significant role in socio-economic development and environmental conservation, generating approximately $1.7 million annually from the sale of honey and beeswax.

Recognizing its potential, the government is actively encouraging investment in beekeeping within forest and bee reserves to harness the untapped resources in the sector.

The success of Sikonge’s beekeeping initiative serves as a model for other regions looking to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.