Africa-Press – Botswana. When the BCL mine, which had long been the economic backbone of Selebi Phikwe and surrounding villages, ceased operations in 2016, it not only resulted in the loss of jobs but also dealt a heavy blow to the region’s economic growth.
Due to the mine’s closure, many local businesses experienced a gradual decline, reflecting the significant impact it had on the community’s economic landscape.
As the curtains fell on the era of the mine, a new dawn emerged with the Selebi Phikwe Citrus Fruit Project, heralding a significant commercial opportunity.
This transformative endeavour signals a watershed moment, offering a platform for the resurgence of ancillary businesses set to redefine the town’s economic trajectory.
One of the prominent spin-offs from the citrus fruit project is the apiary business venture, spearheaded by the Super Bees Association.
With 24 members hailing from Selebi Phikwe, Tobane, Mmadinare, and beyond, this venture is strategically located within the expansive citrus fruit orchard, presenting promising prospects for success.
Established in 2015, the association initially failed to make a significant impact.
Its future always looked bleak and uncertain because there were few profitable commercial ventures to pursue.
Since the initiation of the Citrus project, the Super Bees Association has thrived.
Starting with just one beehive, they now boast an additional four beehives from the orchard, promising a more bountiful harvest.
“Although we have not harvested yet, we are hopeful of better outcomes, our intention with the bee keeping project is not for the benefit of the Association only, we intend to nurture it so that it gives more value chain opportunities,” said the Super Bee Association vice chairperson, Mr John Langaveld.
Mr Langaveld also highlighted the potential for bee sting therapy as a viable business avenue, suggesting that further research and collaboration with relevant stakeholders could enhance its prospects.
As the Citrus Fruit Project prepares for its inaugural harvest on March 21, this presents an opportunity for accommodation service providers in Selebi Phikwe and the surrounding areas to capitalise on increased business activity.
Assistant production manager, Mr Tlhonolofatso Ogolotse, emphasised the importance of expanding beekeeping initiatives at the orchard, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between bees and the orchard as a lucrative opportunity for both investors and entrepreneurs.
He noted that the symbiosis enhanced the sustainability, productivity, and biodiversity of the farming system while providing beekeeping entrepreneurs with the chance to maintain healthy and productive colonies, thus benefiting the project.
Mr Ogolotse added that they aim to fill more than 3 000 spaces with beehives, encouraging individuals and other associations to seize this opportunity.
Source: Mmegi Onlinedailynews
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