Minister John Steenhuisen Engages Beekeeping Community to Boost Small-Scale Agriculture in Cape Town

Today, Minister John Steenhuisen met with South Africa’s beekeeping community at Oude Raapkraal in Westlake, Cape Town. The engagement focused on strengthening partnerships, creating new opportunities, and supporting small-scale beekeepers to build a thriving and sustainable sector.

During the meeting, Minister Steenhuisen highlighted the importance of beekeeping in diversifying agricultural production, promoting food security, and generating income for rural and peri-urban communities. He emphasized that supporting small-scale beekeepers is key to creating a resilient and inclusive agricultural economy.

The session provided a platform for beekeepers to discuss challenges such as access to funding, training, and markets. Minister Steenhuisen and his team engaged directly with participants, exploring strategies to enhance productivity, improve hive management, and expand value-added opportunities, including honey and other bee products.

By fostering collaboration between government, local communities, and industry stakeholders, the initiative aims to empower small-scale beekeepers and strengthen the broader agricultural value chain. This engagement reflects a commitment to growing South Africa’s agricultural sector, “one hive at a time,” ensuring long-term sustainability and economic opportunities for emerging farmers.