Beekeeping with Indigenous People in the Amazon

Since its inauguration several years ago, our stingless beekeeping project has been successful in developing a sustainable source of income that engages all segments of Maijuna society: men, women, and children. Because men are traditionally the recipients of income generated through hunting, fishing, and the sale of agricultural products, women often have few opportunities to earn their own income or take ownership of projects in their communities.

We are incredibly excited to see more and more women embracing stingless beekeeping, demonstrating their mastery of management practices and reaping the rewards of their efforts through honey sales. Already, a number of women in the two Maijuna communities that began stingless beekeeping this year are distinguishing themselves as leading beekeepers. Melba, a female beekeeper in the community of Nueva Vida, impressed her fellow community members during one of our beekeeping workshops last month when she explained to her peers how she successfully managed a problematic hive. Melba taking center-stage and confidently sharing her experience stands out as just one of many moments that highlight how beekeeping engages and empowers women as leaders in community sustainability efforts.

In the past year, we have supported the Maijuna through their first season of honey harvests and sales. Honey sold through our stingless beekeeping project is already acting as a source of women’s economic and personal empowerment in Maijuna lands. In the community of Puerto Huamán, Tarkis and her 12-year-old daughter, Jewerlit, are managing nine hives together. Last month, I watched as Jewerlit independently performed a complex hive division, showing her knowledge and mastery of the craft. The mother and daughter beekeeping duo recently sold their first bottles of honey for a premium price and they are poised to harvest much more this upcoming honey season!

We are energized to see how the beekeeping process and products are developing a platform for Maijuna women to share their experiences, learn about, and take ownership of a craft born from traditional culture and resources in their ancestral lands. Please help us support Maijuna women and their families by continuing to make beekeeping a sustainable and empowering income source for all members of Maijuna society.