Eden Honeybee Project

The Eden Honeybee Project (EHBP) is a project to help local beekeepers maintain healthy beehives.

Named “Eden” because this project is developed in the Garden Route of Eden District, in South Africa, where no trace of the AFB (American foulbrood) illness has yet been found. In collaboration with beekeeping experts in Europe, the EHBP has three main objectives:

1. We aim to identify the prevalence of AFB surrounding the Eden District and to identify a “safe zone” where no trace of AFB is found. We will do this by working with local beekeepers to test their honey, increasing knowledge exchanges about the dangers of translocating bees from far distances without testing, and ultimately providing a standard criteria for EHBP approved honey.
2. We seek to raise public awareness in the importance of collecting and producing honey organically, as well as the benefits it has on human health.
3. We wish to support local economies and local beekeepers with the latest technology in order to keep beehives healthy and prosperous, and to and encourage artisan honey and related honey product.

Browse Projects

• The Seed Project
• Eden Honeybee Project
• Parasitology of Wild Ruminants
• Parasitology of Wild Felines
• Food Security
• Project Thandora

My week spent on Gondwana Game Reserve with Conservation Global was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. I was fortunate enough to travel to South Africa with Franklin University Switzerland on academic travel in the spring of 2015. Bonding with the staff and learning about the animals in their natural environment made for one incredible week. Each day was filled with activities and lectures that were as entertaining as they were educational. As a group we had a lecture in the morning either from a member of the knowledge staff or from a local expert. We learned about native bee populations and were treated to honey samples from the region and were given a demonstration on the practice of tagging and tracking animals on the reserve. Perhaps the most memorable was when we were taught how to properly handle a tranquilizer gun and had a competition to see who could get a bullseye! After the morning lecture, the group would split up for the safari in which the staff took great care to make sure we saw as many animals as possible. Later in the afternoon we would regroup for a drink and to admire the scenery. I have the utmost respect for Conservation Global and the work they are doing—hoping to return to South Africa soon!

Solange Pittet March 1st, 2015

The South Africa travel was the most incredible experience of life!! With Conservation Global’s help, I experienced memories that will last a lifetime. From learning about sustainability in townships and wildlife conservatory at game reserves, to the social and economic issues that South Africa struggles with today, Conservation Global allowed me to be enthusiastic and engaged throughout our trip, as well as encouraged me to think about how my relationship with nature and the environment will affect future generations for years to come.

Julia Tomich May 24th, 2016