In the heart of western Tanzania, deep in the lush forests of Katavi, the steady hum of bees signals more than just the making of honey — it tells a story of resilience, opportunity, and sustainable transformation. Abdallah Kakoso and Rehema Humud never expected that bees would change their life. For years, limited economic opportunities made it difficult to provide for their family, and deforestation put additional strain on their land and resources. With forests shrinking due to unsustainable farming and firewood collection, life was becoming even more challenging — money was tight, opportunities were scarce, and the future felt uncertain. Everything changed for Abdallah and Rehema and their entire community when they discovered the benefits of beekeeping.
With support from the Jane Goodall Institute, Abdallah and Rehema received training and resources to establish their own beekeeping enterprise. What started as a few hives has grown into 200 improved beehives spread across the Tongwe East and West Local Forest Reserves. Each year, they harvest and sell 661 pounds of pure, uncontaminated honey in markets across Tanzania. Demand for their honey quickly outpaced supply. Through community programs funded by JGI, Abdallah connected with Upendo Honey, a social enterprise in Kigoma that purchases and distributes organic honey. Last year, he sold nearly 3,000 pounds of comb honey to Upendo Honey, securing a stable income for his family.
Beyond providing a stable income, beekeeping also became a way for Abdallah and Rehema to protect their local ecosystems. Through JGI’s Tacare approach, which facilitates local people to drive conservation and development decisions on their own land, they learned how beekeeping could help restore forests and reduce deforestation. Bees play a vital role in pollination, ensuring the health of trees and plants that provide critical habitat for wildlife, including chimpanzees. By earning sustainable income from honey, Abdallah and Rehema no longer have to rely on activities like charcoal production or unsustainable farming, which drive deforestation and habitat loss.
“I am who I am today because of beekeeping,” Abdallah says. “We’re making real progress.”
Inspired by the impact of beekeeping, Abdallah and Rehema wanted to help others in their community find similar success. They began mobilizing women to adopt energy-saving stoves instead of traditional wood-burning stoves, further reducing pressure on local forests. So far, 40 women have made the switch, reducing firewood use and helping preserve the rainforest and by 2027, they hope to reach 500 women.
Beekeeping is also opening doors for western Tanzanian women in new ways. Abdallah and Rehema recently formed an organization called the Kabende Group to support women who want to enter the honey industry. The group’s first harvest took place this past fall, and within a year, they plan to manage another 200 improved beehives.
“Women are excited about this opportunity, and more are joining us every day,” Abdallah says.
Thanks to JGI’s support, and the investment of our donors, Abdallah and Rehema are not just building a business; they are creating a movement. Their journey proves that conservation and sustainable livelihoods go hand in hand, uplifting families, communities, and entire ecosystems.
“The days of poor honey quality and no market are behind us,” Abdallah declares. “We are building a better future.”
Bringing Tanzanian Honey to the World
Abdallah and Rehema’s success is testament to the incredible impact of beekeeping — not just for individuals, but for entire communities and ecosystems. Now, thanks to the partnership between JGI and Burlap & Barrel, you can be even more involved in this transformation.
Burlap & Barrel, a company known for sourcing single origin spices from smallholder farmers, offers honey from beekeepers like Abdallah and Rehema. This honey, harvested using sustainable practices, reflects the rich biodiversity of western Tanzania, with nectar from over 30 different flowering plant species.
Through our partnership, 5% of the retail price from each jar sold will support JGI’s work in Tanzania, ensuring that more beekeepers like Abdallah and Rehema can build sustainable livelihoods while protecting critical forests.
You can choose from three varieties:
- Smoked Woodland Honey — Infused with natural woodsmoke, adding a sweet, smoky flavor perfect for barbeque sauces, dressings, and marinades.
- Amber Woodland Honey — A floral and citrusy delight, ideal for tea, glazes, and cakes.
- Dark Woodland Honey — Rich and bold, with notes of molasses and dates, perfect for baking and hot drinks.
Every purchase supports conservation, strengthens communities, and promotes sustainable livelihoods.
Taste the impact. Shop now at 🔗 burlapandbarrel.com.
Photo credits, in order of appearance: JGI/Michael Pandisha, Burlap & Barrel
