Kenya’s growing demand for honey has been identified as a major economic opportunity, with the government now pushing for increased production, value addition and market expansion.
Jonathan Mueke, the Principal Secretary for Livestock Development, said the country’s honey deficit should be viewed not as a challenge but as a pathway to job creation, enterprise growth and improved farmer incomes.
Speaking after a high-level stakeholder meeting held earlier today, Mueke revealed that Kenya currently produces about 19,000 metric tonnes of honey annually, far below the national demand of over 43,000 metric tonnes.
He noted that the significant gap presents untapped potential for farmers, especially in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs), where apiculture is steadily gaining ground as a reliable source of livelihood.
The meeting brought together development partners, researchers and private sector players to deliberate on practical strategies aimed at scaling up honey production, strengthening value addition and improving access to both local and international markets.
Mueke highlighted that ongoing progress across ASAL counties, coupled with stronger partnerships and increasing commercialization efforts, is positioning beekeeping as a key driver of rural economic transformation.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the sector through policy, innovation and investment, noting that a well-structured apiculture industry could significantly boost incomes while promoting environmental conservation.
The initiative falls under the broader #BETAKilimo agenda, which seeks to modernize agriculture and unlock new opportunities for farmers across the country.
