Kathmandu, Nepal – The InElam project of Helvetas Nepal is revolutionizing the beekeeping sector in Nepal’s Madhesh and Karnali provinces, offering hope and opportunity to small-scale honey producers. By addressing challenges like market access, quality assurance, and policy gaps, InElam has become a beacon of sustainable enterprise and rural development.
In Madhesh province, particularly in Sarlahi, Mahottari, Rautahat, and Bara districts, beekeeping has long been a livelihood source for around 850 households. However, the local honey industry faced setbacks due to an influx of cheaper, low-quality honey imports, leaving nearly 5,000 metric tons of honey unsold for over two years. This crisis affected over 10,000 beekeepers across Nepal, threatening their income and motivation.
To address these challenges, InElam partnered with the government and honey producer associations to advocate for policies curbing illegal honey imports. This policy intervention revitalized the local honey market, with an impressive 3,545 metric tons of Nepali honey sold this year.
A key innovation introduced by InElam is the Common Facility Center (CFC) model. Two CFCs, located in Chandranigahapur (Madhesh) and Khalanga (Jajarkot), provide essential services like honey cleaning, storage, and labeling at an affordable cost of Rs. 20 per kilo. Managed by cooperatives, these centers enhance honey quality and consumer trust, directly benefiting over 825 beekeepers in Madhesh and Karnali provinces.
“Thanks to the support from InElam, we are now earning better income through honey sales,” said a beekeeper from Madhesh.
The success of the CFC model has inspired plans for expansion to Chitwan and other provinces, involving collaboration among beekeeping associations, government bodies, and the private sector. With domestic honey production currently meeting only half of Nepal’s demand, the potential for growth in this sector is immense.
InElam’s holistic approach—combining policy reform, technological support, and innovative business models—has not only strengthened the honey value chain but also empowered disadvantaged communities.
This initiative underscores the transformative power of partnerships, market-driven solutions, and sustainable practices in building resilient rural livelihoods. With continued support, Nepal’s honey industry is poised for a brighter, sweeter future.
