One hundred years of Apimondia

In 1897, 650 beekeeping enthusiasts met in Belgium for the first International Congress of Beekeeping.

One hundred years on, in September this year, Belgium will celebrate Centenary Congress. This time thousands of beekeeping enthusiasts will participate, travelling to Belgium from every part of the world. We hope that YOU will be among them!

What is Apimondia?

Apimondia represents the interests of beekeeping world-wide, and all beekeeping will be represented at the Congress.

What is an Apimondia Congress?

The Congress provides an opportunity for people who share the same interests to meet. It allows us to learn more about our subject, and hear the latest news in information, research and technology.

Congress events

Plenary Sessions and Symposia (ie presentation of information and discussions); Apiexpo (bee traders from many countries selling their products); Social events (receptions, folklore events, concert, banquet); Technical visits (visiting beekeepers and sightseeing); Competitions; Slide sessions; Film shows; Meetings of various groups; Formulation of resolutions concerning our industry; Special displays. Of particular interest to B&D readers is the Apimondia Commission for Beekeeping for Rural Development. There are opportunities for people to make formal and informal presentations about their projects, and to discuss their work with others.

One whole session will be devoted to information about the exploitation of Apis dorsata.

Venue

The Congress will be held within Antwerp Zoological Gardens. This Zoo was founded in 1843, and amazingly, occupies a site of over seven hectares in the heart of the City of Antwerp. Congress participants will therefore enjoy free access to the Zoo with its collection of animals and magnificent gardens: considered amongst the best in the world. This year new penguin house has been opened, with 17 species of penguins, and sea otters.

The Zoo is one minute’s walk from Antwerp’s central railway station. 30 minutes by train or bus from Brussels airport.

Sponsorship

Apimondia does not have financial means to support the participation of delegates at the Congress. If you have unique information share at the Congress, then funding organisation may be willing to contribute towards the cost of your participation. Write a short proposal explaining reasons for your attendance at the Congress, and costs involved, and submit it to possible funding organisations in your country.

Bees for Development

We will be there of course. For this Congress we are joining forces with other organisations from Europe to make a special display. This will emphasise the important role of beekeeping in rural development world-wide. B&D readers will feel at home here

A busy week - see you there!

Nicola Bradbear

President of the Apimondia Standing Commission for Beekeeping for Rural Development

More information?

If you would like further information about the Congress please contact: APIMONDIA, General Secretariat, Corso Italy E-mail: apimondia@mclink.it

If you would like information about Antwerp City and camping accommodation: Antwerp City Tourist Office, Belgium E-mail: toerisme@AntwerpCity.be WEB site: www.dma.be