HONEY MONEY: Beekeeping is creating a buzz around economic transformation efforts

Dr Owetu Zamisa, a 27-year-old researcher from Peddie in the Eastern Cape, has made history as the youngest PhD graduate at the University of Fort Hare’s 2026 autumn graduation. Her doctoral thesis, titled “The Economic Potential of Beekeeping in Rural Development,” highlights the transformative impact of beekeeping on household incomes and its role in fostering economic growth in underserved regions. Zamisa's research focused on the Eastern Cape, where many rural communities face limited economic opportunities. Through a comprehensive study involving 300 small-scale beekeepers, she found that beekeeping can significantly enhance household income and contribute to improved food security. Her findings underscored the importance of education, cooperative structures, and access to market information in enabling successful commercialization of bee products. Her work revealed that wild honey hunting, traditionally dominated by men, is gaining interest among rural women. This shift presents new possibilities for gender-inclusive economic participation. Zamisa emphasized the need for targeted interventions to reduce risks associated with wild honey harvesting, such as promoting sustainable practices and providing training in commercial beekeeping methods. She also advocated for better access to institutional support, including extension services, to empower these communities. Zamisa began her journey at the University of Fort Hare over a decade ago, completing both her undergraduate and postgraduate degrees within ten years. Currently, she lectures at the Faculty of Science and Agriculture, inspiring the next generation of researchers. Her personal motivations stem from a desire to honor her late brother, who passed away from cancer at the age of eight. She hopes her work will help improve the lives of her siblings and other children in similar circumstances. During her research, Zamisa encountered various challenges, including overcoming traditional beliefs and fears surrounding bees. Some communities viewed bees as carriers of ancestral messages, while others were deterred by the risk of stings. Despite these obstacles, she managed to engage with remote communities across the Eastern Cape, conducting fieldwork that brought her closer to the realities of rural life. One of the participants in her research, Luthango Stamper, shared how Zamisa’s insights transformed their understanding of beekeeping. He noted that her guidance helped them recognize the potential for formal market access, allowing them to move beyond small-scale production toward recognized businesses. “Her work opened our eyes,” Stamper said, highlighting the tangible benefits of Zamisa’s research. Zamisa’s future plans include mentoring young researchers and encouraging students from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue academic and scientific careers. Her work continues to resonate with those seeking innovative solutions to rural economic challenges, offering hope and practical strategies for sustainable development.