Description

Propolis, a gum collected by bees to seal its hive has numerous medicinal values. It is one of the untapped high value bee products that is under exploited by Ugandan beekeepers despite its economic value. This policy brief highlights the potential of the product prototypes developed under the bee propolis project to stimulate private sector investment and general market response. A cross sectional study of mixed methods research approach combining field surveys and laboratory analysis was conducted. A total of 112 beekeepers and 199 potential consumers were interviewed across four regions in Uganda. Four hundred kilograms of propolis were collected from four regions in Uganda and processed into powder and tea bags. The new product prototypes were then introduced to stakeholders after which perception and willingness to purchase was assessed. This study reveals beekeepers have the potential to produce between 325 to 870 tons of crude propolis annually earning up to US$1.3-3.5 million. This income is currently lost due to poor organisation.