Impact of climate variability on honey production: a case of ratat and marigat, Baringo County, Kenya

Abstract

Beekeeping is among the livelihood diversification strategies likely to be affected by climate variability. Changes in climatic variables in varying degrees will affect the productivity of bees because honey production depends on temperature and rainfall. Variation in temperature and rainfall influence the activity of honeybees. The study focused on the relationship between climate variability and honey production for the pastoral communities. Social survey research design was applied and a structured questionnaire administered to 100 household heads who practice beekeeping. Focus group discussion (FGDs) and interviews were used to collect supplementary data. Secondary data was obtained from the relevant institution, journals, books and publication. Rainfall for the period of 2012 to 2016 was analysed using excel. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyses the data: correlation, frequency, percentages, measures of central tendency and dispersion. The results revealed decreasing annual rainfall from the year 2012 (1623.4mm) to 2015 (470mm) with 80% of the respondents reported a decrease in rainfall amount leading to increase in severity and frequency of droughts (90%). The results show a significant positive correlation between rainfall amount and quantity of flowers (r=0.423; p<0.00), rainfall amount and honey yield (r=0.369; p<0.00) and duration of rainfall and honey yield (r=.460; p<0.00). With decreasing rainfall, the prevalence of pest has increased in the past 5 years especially honey badger (70%), ants (66%) which were ranked 1st and 2nd,, respectively. There were new cases of snakes becoming bee pests in the study area. . In conclusion, there was evidence to suggest that climate variability has negative effects on honey production hence affecting the livelihood of the pastoral community who rely on natural resources for their survival. The study recommended for disseminate of meteorological data to the farmers to enhance preparedness.