Every beekeeper in Guyana is to receive 10 beehive boxes under a government initiative aimed at expanding honey production and supporting small businesses in the industry.

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha announced the support on Friday during his address at Honey Fest 2026. He said approximately 280 beekeepers are currently recorded across the country, with the additional boxes intended to help them expand their operations and increase their earning potential.

The announcement comes amid growth in national honey production. According to figures cited by Mustapha, production rose from 3,745 gallons in 2022 to 38,574 gallons in 2025. The 2025 output represented a 53 per cent increase over 2024.

The minister linked that growth to support provided through the Ministry of Agriculture’s National Honey Expansion Programme, which aims to strengthen production capacity and expand beekeeping across Guyana.

Held under the theme “Next Generation Hives: Growing Guyana Through Green Apiculture,” Honey Fest showcased honey and honey-based products, alongside opportunities for processing and business development.

Mustapha said the industry is creating jobs, generating income and supporting rural livelihoods, while opening opportunities for young people and women to establish businesses.

He also pointed to opportunities beyond honey production, including agro-processing, packaging, branding and supplying local and international markets.

The minister said expanding the industry forms part of the government’s wider agricultural diversification agenda, with an emphasis on developing non-traditional industries and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.

He highlighted the role bees play in pollination and maintaining biodiversity, noting that sustainable beekeeping also supports agricultural productivity and food security.

Mustapha encouraged beekeepers and entrepreneurs to take advantage of the support available and invest in the industry’s continued development.

Hon. Zulfikar Mustapha Minister of Agriculture presents an award at Honey Fest