North West Launches First Beekeeping Training for Rural Youth Under NARYSEC

In an innovative move to equip rural youth with practical skills and unlock new economic opportunities, the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform has launched its first beekeeping training initiative under the National Rural Youth Service Corps (NARYSEC). The programme is designed to strengthen the character, skills, and confidence of young people, enabling them to play an active role in driving development within their communities.

NARYSEC participants commit to a four-year programme, with the first two years dedicated to skills development and the remaining two years focused on enterprise incubation and access to markets. The North West Province Beekeeping Association approached NARYSEC to initiate beekeeping training for enrolled youth, with Koketso Bokaba facilitating the programme and Nontokozo Ngwabe of Faithworks Consultants serving as the service provider. Lucas Radise, chairperson of the association, also plays an active role in supporting the initiative.

“This is the first beekeeping training offered through NARYSEC. Learners are trained to become professional beekeepers, learning not only how to farm honey but also how to work with bee products such as venom, cosmetics, propolis, and pollen,” said Bokaba.

The programme begins with classroom-based theory to give learners a solid understanding of beekeeping principles and safety. Participants then move on to practical, hands-on training in hive management, bee health, and honey harvesting techniques. The final phase focuses on market access, equipping participants with the knowledge and tools to sell their products locally and regionally, turning skills into sustainable enterprises.

NARYSEC participants describe the programme as life-changing. Dikgang Onkarabile says the training has transformed her understanding of bees and their ecological importance. “What I like most about the programme is that it allows you to connect with nature and observe the structure of a beehive and how bees live. Before joining the programme, I knew nothing about bees. The only thing I understood was pollination,” she said. Through the training, Onkarabile has gained practical skills in honey harvesting, hive management, and an understanding of regulatory requirements to maintain a sustainable apiary. She aims to become a pioneer in her village, establish her own business, and mentor other local beekeepers.

Another participant, Phatsimo Radise, highlighted the programme’s potential for entrepreneurship. “What I like most about the programme is that it introduces us to something unique, an untouched and untapped territory that empowers entrepreneurs and creates opportunities for disadvantaged communities,” he said. Radise also noted that the training has improved his financial literacy, market understanding, and ability to distribute products effectively. His long-term goal is to continue his studies and empower more rural communities through beekeeping knowledge.

The programme aims to strengthen both individual livelihoods and local economies. Beekeeping offers opportunities beyond honey production, including value-added products and potential access to export markets. “This programme empowers rural youth to become self-sufficient while contributing to the socio-economic development of their communities. It is a step towards building resilient, vibrant rural areas,” Bokaba explained.

By combining practical skills, business knowledge, and market access, the NARYSEC beekeeping training initiative is opening doors for rural youth, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating a foundation for sustainable rural development in the North West Province.