World bee day is observed annually on 20th May across the globe. The day is marked to raise awareness about the essential roles bees play in supporting people and the environment.
Scholars are of the view that, bees are known to be one of the hardest working creatures on the planet, and immensely benefit the people and the natural ecosystem around them.
Research indicates that, Bees may carry pollen grains from one flower to another and help in the production of fruits, nuts and seeds contributing significantly to food security and nutrition.
The day is celebrated on the birth anniversary of Slovenian beekeeper Anton Jansa, the pioneer of modern beekeeping and was the first beekeeping teacher. In 1771 he published a book titled ‘Discussion on Beekeeping’
The world bee day, which is organized by the food and agriculture organization (FAO), was observed through a virtual event this year.
According to the official website of the FAO, the event focused attention on highlighting the importance of bees in sustainable beekeeping systems. It also draws attention towards the various threats and challenges these pollinatory face, while focusing on their contribution to livelyhood and food chain.
Radio Nigeria sampled opinions of some Kano residents on advantages of honey
Auwal Musa Umar, who is a registered Nutritionist/ dietitian, and chairman institute for dietetics in Nigeria, Kano state chapter, spoke extensively on the nutritional value of honey.
He explained that, honey contains protein, Riboflavin and copper.
“Honey is used to manage and prevent illnesses”
Dr. Munir Abdulmunin Yawale from the department of crop science, Kano state university of science and technology Wudil, described bee keeping as one of the catalysts to economic development.
He Maintained that bee wax is used by pharmaceutical industries as raw material to produce medicine, Saying that it is one of the ingredients used in the production of local medicine.
Dr. Munir decried over rising cases of adulteration and lack of assistance and empowerment for honey farmers by government.
“The main problems facing honey production is adulteration, afforestation, pollution, lack of storage facilities, among others”
The world Bee day 2022 themed “Bee Engaged: celebrating the diversity of bees and beekeeping systems” paved way for organizations, civil societies and concerned citizens world wide to promote actions that will protect and improve pollination and their habitats, increase their population and support the long term development but beekeeping.
Special Report By: KHADIJAH ALIYU/KANO
