Indigenous knowledge-based production practices and utilization of stingless bee honey in humid Afromontane Forest zones of the Southwest and Semi-Arid Forest zone of Ethiopia.

backgroundThis study investigated indigenous knowledge-based production practices and utilization of stingless bee honey (SBH) among rural communities in Ethiopia's humid Afromontane Forest zones of the Southwest (Kaffa, Sheka, Majang, Jimma) and the semi-arid Borena Zone in the South. SBH is an important medicinal, nutritional and cultural resource for these communities, yet information on local production systems, species used, harvest practices and threats are limited.

methodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted among 253 respondents selected from communities identified as potential stingless bee producers and users in the humid Afromontane Forest districts of the Southwest and the semi-arid forest district of southern Ethiopia. Data were collected using a combination of structured interviews and direct field observations to collect comprehensive information on local production practices, species distribution, harvesting techniques, utilization patterns, and the major challenges associated with stingless bee honey (SBH) production.

resultsThe findings show that SBH harvesting is primarily conducted by men (93.3%), with most harvesters also engaged in agriculture and livestock production. Traditional ecological knowledge is predominantly passed down from elders (78.7%). Educational levels vary, with primary education being the most common. The majority of SBH is obtained from wild colonies (97.6%), with limited efforts toward domestication (2.4%). In Yabello, honey is collected from three species: Plebeina armata, Meliponula beccarii, and Hypotrigona species, known locally as "Dama Damu Guracha," "Dama Damu Dimma," and "Tunale," respectively, in the Oromifa language. In the Southwest region (Kaffa, Sheka, Majang, and Jimma), M. beccarii and H. trigona are identified as the primary species, each with distinct local names depending on the zone. Communities in the study area possess traditional knowledge and skills that are primarily focused on digging around colonies to create nesting spaces. However, there are significant seasonal variations in harvesting times across different zones. The peak harvesting periods in Kaffa, Sheka, Majang, and Jimma zones occur in April, while in the Borena Zone, it extends from April to June. Colonies are located by observing and tracking the movement of worker bees. Harvesting techniques differ, with the majority (74.3%) employing squeezing methods, while 21.3% use a combination of squeezing and colony destruction. SBH is mainly harvested once a year, predominantly for medicinal purposes (94.9%). There are notable differences in production volume across regions, with the highest estimated yield from Sheka Zone (4.8 ± 8 kg) over the past 12 months and the lowest from Majang (1.2 ± 1.6 kg). The honey is consumed in various ways, often before meals, for its medicinal properties, such as treating asthma, colds, and respiratory diseases. The study also highlights major threats to meliponine colonies, including predators, land-use changes, unsustainable harvesting practices, and agrochemical use, with 83% of respondents concerned about the potential endangerment of these bees. Despite the longstanding tradition of SBH production, only 1.9% of respondents have received training in meliponiculture.

conclusionIndigenous knowledge of stingless bee honey production remains a vital component of local culture and livelihoods in Ethiopia. However, the practice faces serious challenges due to limited training, lack of modern meliponiculture practices, and environmental pressures. Strengthening conservation efforts, providing technical training, and integrating traditional knowledge with modern practices are essential for sustaining stingless bee populations and promoting the sustainable production of this valuable honey.