BeeGood Africa is a new training project by HoneyatDawn, with initial funding and support from the World Wildlife Fund and the Nedbank GreenTrust. Our intention is to lower the entry barriers for new beekeepers from previously disadvantaged backgrounds to create sustainable income generation opportunities, promote pollinator protection and raise environmental awareness for our native bees and habitat.

We’re helping 15 new beekeepers in the Western Cape take their first steps with full starter kits, hands-on training, and mentorship. This hive-by-hive journey nurtures communities, protects our environment, and sparks sustainable livelihoods. Together, we’re creating a future where beekeeping empowers and transforms.

The aim of BeeGoodAfrica is creating a model that is scalable and inclusive.

Our goal is to grow a network of trained beekeepers across the Western Cape through job creation, broadening knowledge capacities and supporting the development of long-term sustainable livelihoods.

This work is about reconnecting with the land, strengthening ecosystem services and nurturing biodiversity. It includes increasing the production and supply of local honey, expanding the ecosystem services such as pollination support, and creating value-added products.

This opportunity is for aspiring or new beekeepers from previously disadvantaged backgrounds in the Western Cape. If you are passionate about protecting pollinators, interested in environmental stewardship, or looking to develop a small-scale bee business, this project can support you.
Support is currently available for 15 new beekeepers only.
  • An equipment grant comprising 1 complete hive, bee suit, smoker, and hive tool.
  • Access to 4 practical workshops focused on hive management and honey harvesting.
  • One-on-one technical support, including guidance on the financial side of running a
    beekeeping enterprise; and
  •  Connecting to a community of beekeepers and mentorship opportunities.
Beekeeping supports food systems, biodiversity, and creates economic resilience.
  • Applications are open until 20 July 2025.
  • The project is based in the Western Cape, South Africa.
  • The workshop series will be held between late July and September 2025 at central, accessible locations (locations to be announced).

Workshop 1

At this workshop, participants were introduced to the fascinating world of beekeeping through an engaging and practical Beekeeping 101 session designed for beginners and aspiring beekeepers. They gained a clearer understanding of the vital role bees play in our ecosystem and how responsible beekeeping can contribute to protecting and supporting them.

This session covered:

  • The essential tools and equipment needed to get started
  • What’s inside a hive, including the basics of bee biology
  • Practical tips on record keeping for new beekeepers

Workshop 2

This practical session equiped participants with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain healthy, productive hives throughout the year. From seasonal hive care to safe honey extraction and understanding legal compliance, this workshop is designed for both new and growing beekeepers looking to improve their hive management practices.

This session covered:

  • Preparing hives for winter dormancy [Winter maintenance]
  • Supporting colonies during spring build-up [Spring maintenance]
  • Maximising productivity during peak forage seasons [How to catch bees?]
  • Managing hive stress during dry, windy or winter [Supplementary feeding/planting forage]
  • Pest Control
  • Harvesting & Selling Your Honey
  • Extraction Methods & Proper Storage

Workshop 3

At this workshop participants explored key threats to bees, learned how to spot and manage pests, and discovered when to alert authorities to protect hives and prevent outbreaks.

This session covered:

  • What Are the Threats to Bee Populations?
  • Dealing with Pests and Disease in the Apiary
  • Who to Alert and Why It Matters

Workshop 4

This session explored how to turn beekeeping into a profitable venture. Participants gained understanding on how to build a solid business model, identify market opportunities, and price your products. Uncovering branding, packaging, and marketing to help your honey and hive products stand out. The session also includesd a practical introduction to the Bee Business Calculator, an essential tool to estimate costs, profits, and growth potential.

This session covered:

  • Introduction: Beekeeping as a Business
  • Understanding Your Market
  • Pricing for Profit
  • Branding and Product Differentiation
  • Marketing and Sales Strategy
  • Introduction to the Bee Business Calculator
  • Building Customer Loyalty
  • Planning for Growth