Beekeeping opportunities, challenges and technology adoption in Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Ethiopia has enormous potential for beekeeping. However, its potential has been underutilized due to the traditional way of beekeeping practice. This study was conducted in the Gedeo zone with the main objectives of assessing opportunities, challenges and the adoption of beekeeping technology. Sample districts were purposely selected based on beekeeping potential and the number of improved hives owned by beekeepers. Data was collected from 180 beekeepers using a cross-sectional survey. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis. Education level, access to beekeeping training, beekeeping experience, access to beekeeping equipment, gender and annual income significantly affected the adoption of improved beehives. Therefore, to exploit the existing beekeeping opportunities, raising awareness through intensive training on improved beekeeping technology would be a crucial measure to increase the adoption of beekeeping technology. In addition, offering affordable improved beehive technology with beekeeping equipment would improve the adoption of improved beehives.