On November 23, 2024, experts from FSRD, under the ValueNet project (GIZ/SRD) and funded by the British Embassy, conducted a visit to the village of Bllacë, Bulqizë. The purpose of this activity was to assess the current state of beekeeping and promote sustainable and safe practices under the motto “Healthy Bees, Agriculture, Environment, and Safe Beekeeping Products.”
The Bllacë area is rich in natural resources, offering abundant foraging opportunities for bees, including Multifloral meadows, Forests, and Cultivated fruit trees.
Key Challenges Identified:

• Low number of bee colonies compared to the area's foraging capacity.
• Uncontrolled veterinary treatments for Varroa disease. Many beekeepers use improper methods, such as applying amitraz with fabric strips or burning amitraz tablets.
• Significant colony losses: During the 2023-2024 winter, 183 bee colonies were lost, posing a severe economic challenge to small-scale farmers.
• Inadequate processing facilities: There are no dedicated spaces or proper equipment for honey extraction, packaging, and labeling.
• Poor hive conditions: Most hives lack anti-Varroa nets and are improvised with tin sheets or other non-standard coverings.

Steps Needed for Improvement:

• Support for controlled and standardized treatments for bee diseases.


• Investment in infrastructure and equipment for honey processing.


• Training programs for beekeepers on sustainable and modern beekeeping techniques.

Beekeeping is vital for biodiversity and environmental preservation. Let’s work together to support local beekeepers, ensuring safe and high-quality products for all!


#SustainableBeekeeping #Bllace #Bulqize #GIZSRD #BritishEmbassy #RuralDevelopment