#YourStory – ‘We are human bee-ings’

If there are no bees there will be no food.

Farai Chinomwe, the beekeeping entrepreneur, who is on a mission to save our bees and secure food security.

When most people come in contact with a bee, they shoo it away in fear of being stung or, in some cases, people squash the bee.

However, the simple bee plays an extremely important part in the balance of nature. Without them, more than just our honey supplies would be at risk.

Farai Chinomwe is a beekeeper with his own apiary, who is known to help Bedfordview, Edenvale and even Joburg East residents with unwanted beehives on their properties.

Farai removes the bees without harming them and ensures that they can be relocated.

The beekeeping business started when Farai was trying to become a musician and his drum became infested with bees. He did not want to get rid of them or exterminate them, but instead wanted to learn how he could live in harmony with them, in accordance with his Rasta lifestyle.

Farai used what he learnt to start beekeeping as a hobby, but realised that it was also a business opportunity. He then started his own business called Blessed Bees Africa. Farai now has 20 beehives by doing the live removal of the bees and also has honey that he can sell as a result of this.

Farai is also known for his backwards running, at marathons like the Comrades and Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon, to create awareness for the need of bees and the important role they play in the ecosystem.

“Bees contribute to Earth, they pollinate plants. If there are no bees there will be no food,” said Farai.

Bees help with food and every aspect of daily life, as they pollinate plants, which in turn helps with crop production.

“Without bees what will happen to us?”

Farai said it is up to us to look out for the bees and try help them.

“Bees are being affected by natural diseases and need help.”

One of these diseases affecting South African bees is called American Foulbrood. It is an extremely widespread and destructive disease among bees.

People who need bees removed, or who wish to be involved in Beekeeping, can contact Farai on 084 663 8761.

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