Enable 1500 Kenyan Rural Farmers for Agribusiness

In a quiet village surrounded by indigenous forest trees and open skies, 24-year-old Valerie stands out as a symbol of determination and hope. When The Mango Tree launched the Our Lives, Our Land Project, she made an unexpected choice of beekeeping.

While many young mothers opted for more familiar ventures, Valerie decided to take a different path. “People told me it was not a woman’s job,” she recalls with a smile. “But I saw bees as an opportunity, not a risk.”

“People told me it was not a woman’s job. But I saw bees as an opportunity, not a risk.” - Valerie, young mother and beekeeper

For many young people, especially women, access to land remains a major barrier to farming. In Valerie’s village, ancestral land is largely controlled by older men, leaving few options for young women to start agricultural ventures. But Valerie’s determination didn’t waver. She joined a group of local beekeepers through the project, attending hands-on training sessions on apiculture, group dynamics, and resource sharing.

Today, she’s part of a vibrant community group of 30 beekeepers managing three joint apiary sites. Her group’s collaboration has made land access and resource use possible for all members.

Valerie beams as she talks about her first honey harvest. “I couldn’t believe it when I sold my first honey jars,” she says proudly. With support from The Mango Tree, she received two hives that marked the start of her journey. From the proceeds of her first harvest, she reinvested in a small poultry project, ensuring her income continues to grow throughout the year.

“I am rich in my mind and focus. The knowledge I’ve gained has expanded my horizon in beekeeping.” - Valerie, on what empowerment means to her

Her story doesn’t end with her own success. Valerie is now mentoring other young women, encouraging them to explore the beekeeping industry and environmental conservation efforts around local forests. She believes that the future of the honey industry is bright, and that women should play a leading role.

“Let more young people, especially young mothers, join in environmental conservation work. The forest offers us a chance to become great beekeepers.” – equips Valarie