The North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) in
collaboration with the Mining Development Agency (MDA) joined the global community
in celebrating the 2025 World Bee Day under the theme, “Bee Inspired by Nature to
Nourish Us All.” The provincial event was hosted at the MDA’s Agricultural Hub in
Marikana, near Rustenburg.
MEC Madoda Sambatha, addressed beekeepers and stakeholders at the event,
emphasising the need to develop the bee industry in the province to an aggregator
level. He stressed the importance of formalising the beekeeping sector and announced
plans to establish an integrated register of all beekeepers in the province as a
foundation for growth, regulation and support.
“This sector has the potential to contribute meaningfully to food security, job creation,
and economic diversification in our rural communities. Formalisation and structured
support are key to unlocking this potential,” said MEC Sambatha.
Speaking to beekeepers, MDA CEO Tshimane Montwedi shared important insights into
the agency’s work in sustainable development through beekeeping. “This programme
is not just about honey; it is about dignity, independence and restoring economic
agency to former mineworkers and rural communities,” said Montwedi.
The MDA’s initiative has empowered over 100 beekeepers across areas including De
Wildt, Ramakokastad, Zeerust, Vryburg, Matlosana, Rustenburg, and Manyaledi. To
date, more than 800 beehives and starter kits have been distributed in the North West.
In response to increasing theft and environmental threats, the MDA has also
introduced innovative solutions including IoT-enabled monitoring devices linked to the
Beezi App, and SABS-approved fire-resistant “green crete” hives—pioneering
technologies to safeguard hives from wildlife, theft, and veld fires.
Montwedi also highlighted the role of the Marikana Agri-Hub, which includes
hydroponics, egg production, a training centre, and a packhouse to support market
readiness. “This ecosystem represents more than infrastructure. It represents the
convergence of training, production, processing, and market access—an engine for
rural development and inclusive economic growth,” he stated.
The event was attended by key industry players and stakeholders, including the
National Department of Agriculture and the South African Bee Industry Organisation
(SABIO).
Lucas Radise, Deputy Chairperson of the North West Beekeepers Association shared
his vision for an empowered and well-organised beekeeping sector, reinforcing the
importance of collaboration between government, industry and grassroots producers
to maximise on the market gap and supplying quality raw honey as well as other bee
products.
The 2025 World Bee Day celebration not only honoured the ecological significance of
bees but also marked a renewed provincial commitment to developing and
empowering the beekeeping sector for the benefit of all.
IMG 1243: MEC Madoda Sambatha expressed the significance of establishing a
provincial beekeeping strategy that will guide the development and sustainability of
the industry.
IMG 1244: MDA CEO Tshimane Montwedi said the agency is committed to assisting
former mineworkers with resources, skills and knowledge to participate and contribute
towards the North West economy through beekeeping.
IMG 1245: Beekeepers in the province showcased their produce at the Provincial
World Bee Day celebration.
End.
For enquiries contact:
Ms. Khutala Tshangela
Media Liaison Officer
Cell: 066 458 6915
ktshangela06@gmail.com or KTshangela@nwpg.gov.za
Issued by
The Directorate Communication Services
North West Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Director: Ms Emelda Setlhako
Tel : 018 384 3117
Email: ESetlhako@nwpg.gov.za
www.facebook.com/nwpread
X: @nwpg_dard