Dear friends

2013 is Bees for Development’s 20th year. We believe that our sector is progressing, with beekeeping increasingly recognised as an excellent means for rural income generation. Certainly the numbers of organisations running beekeeping projects has increased. Where projects seek to help existing beekeepers, many still cling to the belief that changing the technology used will automatically lead to increase in their productivity and profitability.

As an example of this approach read our interview with Mr Abebe on page 6. However life is not so simple. Therefore in the Journal this year, we will bring you new articles focussing on concepts that we believe to deserve greater consideration. To begin with on pages 10 and 11, we address the topic of productivity in beekeeping. This term is often used, but how should productivity be gauged, and how is it increased? We will also take a new look at equipment, starting opposite with a consideration of beeswax foundation – the thin layer of patterned beeswax used in the frames of frame hive beekeeping. Some beekeepers regard it as essential, while others will never use it in a lifetime of profitable beekeeping. This Journal is read by beekeepers in 130 countries around the world – practising beekeeping in different and wonderful ways. We aim for you to find something to interest you here, and please do write if you would like to contribute – we love to hear from you – and as we enter our 21st year will endeavour to provide the information that you need most.

Errata

BfDJ 105 page 13: the beautiful honeycomb pictured was actually harvested by Tilahun Gebey from one of his top-bar hives. Our apologies for this error.

Readers in developing countries

may apply for a sponsored subscription. Apply online or use the form on page 20.

BfD Trust UK Registered Charity (1078803) works to assist beekeepers in developing countries.

Copyright

You are welcome to translate and/or reproduce items appearing in BfDJ as part of our Information Service. Permission is given on the understanding that BfDJ and author(s) are acknowledged, BfD contact details are provided in full, and you send us a copy of the item or the website address where it is used.

SUPPORT:

Bees for Development Trust gratefully acknowledge Marr Munning Trust, Panta Rhea Foundation, E H Thorne (Beehives) Ltd, Trade Advance Ltd, The Waterloo Foundation, and the many groups and individuals who support our work. Please encourage your friends and colleagues to help. See our website for how to become a Supporter.

Beeswax is white when it is first made by bees

PHOTO © BfD