Contribution of Beekeeping to Household Income around Gishwati- Mukura National Park in Rwanda

Abstract

The study ascertained the contribution of beekeeping to household income around Gishwati-Mukura National Park in Rwanda. A total of 147 beekeepers were interviewed using a structured interview schedule. Data were analysed using multiple linear regression. The study revealed that education level (t = 2.55; p < .000), beekeeping (t = 3.74, p < .000), livestock production (t = 8.33, p < .000), and crop production (t = -2.12, p < .000) had a significant contribution to household income of the beekeeping community. From the results of the study, it could be said that, if other variables are maintained constant, for every $23.8 income from educational level, total household income increases significantly by 21.74%; for every $21.5 income from livestock, total household income increases significantly by 66.42%; and for every $21.6 income from beekeeping, total household income increases significantly by 31.40%. Beekeeping contributes meaningfully to household income. Therefore, more farmers should be mobilised around GMNP to embrace beekeeping for income diversification and as an alternative livelihood venture for the accomplishment of the conservation agenda for GMNP management.