Apiculture and Meliponiculture Development in Africa
摘要
Beekeeping is the management of bees for their products and services. It has been practiced ever since humans started settled agriculture. Various equipment and tools are used in the management of different species of bees for various purposes. The development of vital equipment, such as hives, followed studies that led to the understanding of the biology and ecology of different bee species. In Africa, stingless bees and honey bees are kept. However, stingless beekeeping has received less attention in beekeeping development initiatives. This chapter focuses on beekeeping with special attention paid to Africa. It describes the benefits of beekeeping, bee species kept, bee biology and ecology, beekeeping equipment, apiary and meliponary management, and threats to bee health. Finally, recommendations to address gaps in beekeeping in Africa are provided in order to spur growth and sustainability in the sector.