Communities living along the borders of Tarangire National Park in Babati District are turning to an innovative, nature-based solution to address human–elephant conflict, using bees to protect crops while creating new sources of income through honey production.
The initiative, currently being implemented in Kakoi Village, is led by the non-governmental organisation Tembo Pilipili in partnership with the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI).
It targets one of the region’s long-standing challenges elephants straying from the park into nearby farms and settlements, often destroying crops and threatening livelihoods.
Through the project, villagers are being trained to install and manage beehive fences around their farms.
Elephants are naturally afraid of bees, making the hives an effective and environmentally friendly deterrent.
At the same time, the hives provide honey and other bee products that can be sold, offering households an additional and sustainable source of income.
Speaking during the training, Tembo Pilipili Executive Director Dr Alex Chang’a said the programme demonstrates how conservation and economic empowerment can go hand in hand.
He explained that the project is funded by Veterinary Without Borders of Sweden and is being implemented in phases, with the first phase involving the installation of 100 beehives around farms and residential areas.
“These beehive fences will help protect crops from elephants while enabling communities to benefit economically from honey production and other bee products,” he said.
Tembo Pilipili’s Livelihood Development Programme Manager, Jeremiah Julias, said the project also opens doors for cultural tourism, as visitors can be attracted to community areas to experience local culture and purchase natural products such as honey.
“The expected outcome is reduced crop losses, increased household incomes and stronger local economies,” he said.
Project Manager Francis Ndemela said some of the hives have already been installed and occupied by bees, noting that the initiative will contribute to conservation, tourism and community development, with women among the key beneficiaries.
Babati District Wildlife Officer Emmanuel Laizer described the project as a practical and lasting solution to the conflict between elephants and nearby communities.
He called on residents to take ownership of the initiative, saying its success depends on proper care and management.
Participants in the training said the project will help them protect their farms, create employment opportunities and improve livelihoods, especially for youth and women.
Villagers praised Tembo Pilipili and the government for bringing the project to Kakoi, saying it offers hope for peaceful coexistence between people and wildlife while boosting incomes.