Luanda: More than 5,000 litres of honey could be harvested this year by beekeeper Eduardo Paim Edunde from 200 hives installed in Cavongue Baixo neighbourhood, on the outskirts of Huambo city. Speaking to ANGOP on Monday, he explained that each hive can produce between 15 and 25 litres of honey, depending on the techniques used and the condition of the bee colonies.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the harvesting campaign began in June and, so far, has yielded 200 litres from 40 hives, which have been sold at AOA 6,000 per litre. The activity has created 3 jobs for young people and is the main source of income for Edunde's family.
Edunde's interest in beekeeping began in 2012, when he was working as a security guard at a company and started keeping bees in makeshift hives made from vehicle tyres. At the time, the activity was looked down upon by his colleagues, but he decided to persevere with the project and now has 200 traditional hives, with what he considers to be satisfactory production.
He pledged to improve production techniques and increase the number of hives if he secures funding, with the aim of raising output and creating more jobs for young people. Edunde emphasized that beekeeping represents an opportunity to boost the rural economy, generate income and contribute to the preservation of ecosystems by promoting the value of forests and pollination.
The income generated by the activity has enabled him to cover family expenses, as well as pay school fees, purchase school supplies and meet other needs.
Additionally, data from the Institute for Forest Development (IDF) indicate that, in 2025, 5,700 hectares were reforested in the Cuima, Sanguengue (Cachiungo) and Mundundu (Ucuma) forest areas. During the same period, 6,800 trees, including eucalyptus and pine species, were planted. Huambo Province has 11 active forest areas covered by forest restoration and sustainable timber exploitation programmes.
Honey, produced by bees from flower nectar, is used as a natural sweetener and contains various nutrients and compounds with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The minerals found in honey include potassium, magnesium, sodium, calcium, phosphorus, iron, manganese and copper. It can be used in the preparation of teas and syrups, as well as with juices, cakes, yoghurt and other foods. Despite its nutritional properties, honey should be consumed in moderation because of its high sugar content. Excessive consumption may contribute to increased calorie intake and blood glucose levels.
