Tue Nov 12 05:53:18 UTC 2024: ## Kenyan Farmers Find Sweet Solution to Elephant Problem: Honeybee Fences

**TSAVO NATIONAL PARK, KENYA** – For years, elephants have posed a major threat to Kenyan farmers, destroying crops and livelihoods. But a novel solution, using African honeybees, is offering a glimmer of hope for farmers like Charity Mwangome.

Mwangome, whose farm sits between two sections of the famed Tsavo National Park, has witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of elephant raids. She used to harbor resentment towards the animals, but a project by Save the Elephants has changed her perspective.

The project utilizes beehive fences – rows of hives strung on wires, creating a barrier that emits a potent combination of buzzing and scent that elephants find unpleasant. A nine-year study revealed that elephants avoided farms with these fences 86% of the time.

“The beehive fences came to our rescue,” Mwangome said, expressing gratitude for the protection they provide.

Loise Kawira, a beekeeper trained by Save the Elephants, explains that the sound of 70,000 bees is enough to scare even a six-tonne elephant. “Once the elephants hear the sound of the bees and the smell, they run away,” she said.

The project, supporting 49 farmers, has been effective, but climate change presents new challenges. Droughts have led to bee absconding, and the initial cost of installing the hives – around $1,100 – remains a hurdle for many subsistence farmers.

Despite these challenges, the beehive fences offer a promising alternative to traditional, costly methods like electric fences. For farmers like Mwanajuma Kibula, who has seen an elephant turn away from her beehive-protected farm, the fences provide a sense of security and hope.

“I know my crops are protected,” she said with relief. Kibula also benefits from honey production, earning additional income.

However, not everyone is fortunate enough to afford the beehive protection. Hendrita Mwalada, whose roof was ripped off by an elephant, remains vulnerable to the animals’ destructive nature. She continues to struggle despite the alternative solutions offered by Save the Elephants, including metal fences and deterrents.

“I have tried planting but every time the crops are ready, the elephants come and destroy the crops,” she lamented.

The honeybee solution presents a unique and innovative approach to human-elephant conflict in Kenya. While challenges remain, the project highlights the importance of exploring nature-based solutions to address the complex issues surrounding wildlife conservation and human livelihoods.

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