Refugee Success Stories: Empowered through Beekeeping

June 19, 2024

Ida Francis after harvesting honey from his hives and on his way to the marketplace to sell his produce

UNDP Uganda

Ida Francis is a refugee who is settling in Gimara Subcounty in Obongi District of Uganda. As a small-scale beekeeper, for two years he relied on local beehives made from coconut trees, limiting his honey production. However, everything changed when the Government of Uganda, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) livelihood project arrived in his area.

Through the Uganda Host and Refugee Community Empowerment project's cash-for-work programme, Ida participated in woodlot planting and opening of local access roads. He was among those who helped plant 10acres of woodland and improved local road infrastructure, earning 400,000 UGX ($110 USD) per month. This new income stream became the steppingstone for Ida's beekeeping ambitions. He invested in two high-quality, durable beehives, significantly boosting his honey production.

Some of Ida’s hives in Gimara Subcounty

UNDP Uganda

Ida's hard work paid off. He now harvests a staggering 6 jerrycans of honey every 8 months, which he sells for 250,000 UGX each. His success didn't stop there. He joined a savings group in his community and through this group he was able to obtain a loan of 2,000,000 UGX that helped expand his beehive operation to a remarkable 24 hives.

The benefits also extend beyond honey. Ida's beekeeping profits allowed him to diversify his income. He's invested in goats and sheep, which have multiplied in number, providing additional financial stability.

"My livelihood has changed greatly," says Ida. "Thanks to the UNDP/KOICA project, I can now afford basic necessities for my family like food, school fees for my children, clothes and shoes - everything they need!"

Ida's story is a testament to the transformative power of opportunity. With a little support and hard work, a refugee beekeeper has become a thriving entrepreneur, securing a brighter future for himself and his family. He is a shining example of the success that can blossom when we support refugees.

Collective investment in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is the only way to reduce historic levels of forced displacement, meet the needs of refugees and communities, and ease pressure on host countries and those welcoming refugees like Uganda. Ida's story is one we share with all refugees around the world.