• A pathway to food system sustainability

In an inspiring effort to uplift marginalised youth beekeepers in the upcountry regions of Sri Lanka, a community-focused project has demonstrated how sustainable practices can improve livelihoods and preserve biodiversity. The initiative titled ‘Empowering Marginalised Peasant Beekeepers in Upcountry Sri Lanka to Ensure Food System Sustainability’ aimed to build the capacity of smallholder farmers and youth, helping them to become more productive members of the local economy while promoting sustainable food systems.

This project has empowered marginalised youth beekeepers in upcountry Sri Lanka through sustainable practices, thereby enhancing their livelihoods and promoting biodiversity. By providing practical training and continuous support, we have helped these communities to strengthen food security and contribute to the local economies.

Needs of marginalised youth communities

The project began with an extensive assessment of local challenges faced by beekeepers in Meemure and Ududumbara, areas known for their rural, underdeveloped economies located in the Knuckles forest area. Through surveys conducted with the assistance of local organisers, key obstacles such as a lack of resources, knowledge-related gaps, and environmental challenges were identified. A targeted capacity building programme was then developed, which focused on providing essential training in beekeeping practices, hive management, and biodiversity conservation.

“These efforts are crucial in sustaining food systems and enhancing the resilience of marginalised communities against external shocks. By empowering smallholder farmers, we are strengthening their capacity to withstand challenges and ensuring long-term food security,” said Prof. Janak K. Vidanarachchi of the Faculty of Agriculture of the University of Peradeniya.

Students and young people from these regions were prioritised as beneficiaries, with 60 participants selected to ensure the project’s long-term sustainability. The aim was to empower this marginalised group with skills that could increase their income, lift them out of poverty, and contribute to food security in the area.

Training to foster knowledge

In collaboration with the Bee PERA Society of the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Peradeniya and the Bee Development Unit of the Department of Agriculture, a series of practical workshops were conducted. Led by the Assistant Director of Agriculture of the Bee Development Unit at the Department of Agriculture, G.G.R. Wimukthi, these workshops equipped participants with skills in colony breeding, managing bee related diseases, and using beekeeping tools.

Training sessions were held at the Kaikawala school in Meemure and the Divisional Secretariat Office in Ududumbara in July of this year . Alongside practical beekeeping related knowledge, the participants received colonies, essential beekeeping tools, and educational materials to support their continued learning. The interactive format of the sessions, including a question and answer segment, allowed the participants to address specific challenges unique to their environment.

Evaluation & long-term support

Following the workshops, the project moved into an evaluation phase to assess its impact. A post-evaluation phase was conducted three weeks after distributing the bee colonies to provide necessary post-aids and to measure indicators such as the health of the colonies and the adherence to proper maintenance practices. Notably, 70.4% of the colonies met the expected standards, showcasing the success of the overall initial training programme. However, challenges such as termite attacks on 14.8% of the colonies and wax moth infestations in 7.4% indicated the need for continued support.

This initiative not only fosters food system sustainability but also brings tangible benefits to marginalised youth communities in Sri Lanka. Through this project, we have been able to offer opportunities that improve livelihoods and encourage sustainable practices. Invaluable financial support was received from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and the Swedish International Agriculture Network Initiative. Their contribution made it possible for us to deliver impactful outcomes and support these communities in adopting beekeeping as a viable source of income and ecological preservation.

Transforming livelihoods 

The post-evaluation results were promising, showing an increase in both the knowledge and enthusiasm for beekeeping among the participants. Interest and knowledge in beekeeping, as measured on a five-point scale, rose significantly to an impressive level after the training. After the project was completed, the project group conducted a concluding seminar at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, presenting the project goals and outcomes.

This project exemplifies the power of a participatory, community driven approach to agricultural development. By empowering marginalised farmers and youth in upcountry Sri Lanka, the initiative not only helped these individuals adopt sustainable practices but also promoted biodiversity conservation — a critical need in fragile ecosystems. As the beekeepers continue to apply their newfound skills, the region stands to benefit from improved food security, economic stability, and ecological health.

"By working closely with the communities at the ground level, we were able to ensure the successful delivery of training and support, bringing real and lasting impact to the youth beekeepers and their livelihoods," said Bee PERA Society President Pasindu Ashen Epa Arachchi.

(Dr. Priyashantha is the Event Coordinator and Co-Leader of the said project and Dr. Jayarathna is the Fundraiser and Event Co-Leader of the said project)

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The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect those of this publication