LET'S not kill bees, we need them as they are a source of life through pollination.
This was said during a Mineworkers Development Agency event organised alongside the North West Department of Agriculture to commemorate World Bee Day on Tuesday, 20 May.
North West Agriculture and Rural Development MEC Madoda Sambatha led the commemoration.
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"This is a day where humanity sits and celebrates a role the bee has in development in the community. The day raises awareness about bees and the development of the industry that is responsible for beekeeping," he said.
He said the department works very close with beekeepers.
"The Department of Agriculture has declared the bee an animal. They are now farmers, not beekeepers. We must help them grow and ensure this becomes a real business," he said.
Sambatha declared war on corruption.
"From now onwards, we clean that register. Even with farmers' support, we must go to the person and verify the submission of their business plans," said Sambatha.
Mpho Sekgala, deputy director: biosecurity promotion and awareness in the National Department of Agriculture gave advice and tips to beekeepers.
"The bee has been declared an animal. We have to put very strict regulations to prevent bee diseases from other countries. We must grow as beekeepers," he said.
Sekgala further said there are market standards you must observe through beekeeping or honey processing.
MDA CEO Tshimane Montoedi said this is an institution deeply committed to economic transformation.
"We are empowering individuals and the community by harnessing the potential of beekeeping," he said.
Ward 31 Councillor Vuyiswa Shomang said it's time to see good things in Marikana.
North West Beekeeping Association deputy chairman Lucas Radise said: "We are all talking about honey only, but there's a lot about bees. This market is saturated."
