Pre Extension Demonstration of Production of Coffea Arabica Mono Floral Honey Production at South Western Oromia, Ethiopia

Abstract

This research activity is conducted with the main objectives to evaluate and demonstrate production of Coffea arabica mono floral honey under farmers’ management and create awareness on the importance of the technology. As to the method, selection of two sites and 20 beekeepers were undertaken for technology evaluation. Group apiaries used as centers of learning and technology evaluation. At each sites, farmers, development agents and experts trained and experimental colonies established. Honeybee colony follow up and technology evaluation activities undertaken in partnership with beekeepers, development agents and experts. Better honey yield on average of 16.2kg per hive pure honey harvested from honeybee colonies under management for demonstration. Additionally, 13.2kg per hive pure coffee honey harvested after a month from honeybee colonies mentioned above. In monetary value, the beekeepers obtained net additional 15,070 Birr per hive from improved management practices under coffee honey production from sell of coffee honey. From the results of the demonstration, awareness creation on improved beekeeping management practices that improve yield per hive and increase frequency of honey harvest per year is critical for our beekeepers. Therefore, it is suggested to further pre scale up the technology in other areas