The new hives are being tested in Meatu District, with the technology expected to improve honey yields, simplify harvesting and support local beekeeping livelihoods.
The Friedkin Conservation Fund (FCF) has begun trials of environmentally friendly plastic beehives in Meatu District, Tanzania’s Simiyu Region, as part of efforts to improve honey production and strengthen beekeeping practices among local communities. The hives are being tested ahead of a possible wider rollout to beekeeping groups across the district.
According to FCF, the new plastic hives have the potential to produce up to three times more honey than traditional hives made from timber, other tree materials and sheet metal. The technology was imported from Turkey and is designed to provide beekeepers with a more efficient system for managing colonies and harvesting honey.
FCF beekeeping training officer Baraka Mabula said some bee colonies have already moved into the new hives during the trial. He explained that the design includes a system to regulate excessive heat and frames where bees deposit honey, allowing harvesting to take place without harming the colonies.
The new system could also reduce the use of fire during honey harvesting and enable beekeepers to harvest honey up to three times a year. FCF said further distribution to farmers will depend on the results of the ongoing trials and the level of efficiency demonstrated by the technology.
The initiative builds on FCF’s existing support for community-based beekeeping. In 2026, the organisation has supported more than 16 beekeeping groups comprising 699 people. During the 2025–2026 season, these groups collectively produced 4.27 tonnes of honey, providing an existing base for evaluating the potential benefits of the new hive technology.
The project is also connected with broader community development activities in the Meatu area. FCF reported that its Life Skills and Environmental Education in Schools programme has provided environmental education to 4,822 pupils participating in school clubs, while 2,445 pupils have received life-skills training.
Acting Director of Meatu District Council Protas Dibogo welcomed the introduction of the plastic beehive technology, noting its potential to improve beekeeping practices and contribute to local livelihoods. The initiative is being implemented by FCF as part of community development activities carried out around the Maswa Game Reserve in partnership with Mwiba Holdings.
The trial represents an application of plastic-based equipment in agricultural production, combining beekeeping technology with efforts to improve rural incomes and honey output. If the trials demonstrate the expected efficiency, FCF plans to make the new hives available to more farmers in Meatu District.