Beekeeping Research and Innovation in Panama

The project focuses on revitalizing and strengthening beekeeping as a viable source of income and environmental conservation for small rural producers. Following the introduction of Africanized bees and the fluctuation in the number of hives and producers, MIDA launched the Bee Health Program in 2011 to address the pests and diseases affecting this sector. This project aims to improve beekeeping management practices and increase hive sustainability through innovation in fortified diets and pest control strategies. In addition, the genetic diversity of bees will be investigated and the ecological benefits of pollination in terms of biodiversity conservation and agricultural production will be evaluated. Finally, the project will directly benefit 425 national beekeepers and will strengthen institutional and academic capacities through the dissemination of new beekeeping knowledge and technologies.