Bee Defence Project

The Bee Defence Project aims to reduce elephant conflict and support rural communities in the region. As part of a pilot scheme,  EC has installed 58 bee hives around on the Jafuta Reserve and community croplands, the project creates a natural barrier, which deters elephants, who have a healthy respect for bees, while providing communities with a sustainable source of income.

EC is also using specially designed beehives to protect iconic trees from ring-barking by elephants which often debilitates and kills the tree.

Following the success of the pilot project Elephant Crew intend to role this out on a large scale throughout the Vic Falls communities.Studies have shown bee fencing to be 82% effective at deterring African elephants from entering cultivated area. This not only protects valuable harvests, but also prevents dangerous encounters between elephants and humans.

The project’s goals are to educate the public on the importance of bees and empower communities to manage their own apiaries. By establishing dedicated community beehives, the project gives locals a reliable way to earn income from honey and wax production, while ensuring the bees remain to pollinate surrounding crops.

The Bee Defence Project is demonstrating how sustainable beekeeping can benefit both wildlife and rural livelihoods. By investing in this innovative solution, our support helps protect elephants, improve food security, and build a more prosperous future for the region.