Equipped with 10 beehives, essential processing tools, and protective gear, Manjimela’s honey harvest has grown into a significant venture. Last year, she harvested 120 liters of honey, earning recognition at the district’s agriculture show. 

Despite the challenges of recurrent droughts, she remains resilient–“I use some of the honey for home consumption and sale, while the surplus is exchanged for maize, providing enough food for my home,” she said.

Manjimela also plays a pivotal role in her community by mentoring others at the Nyawa agriculture camp. "Through the project, I have trained seven women, forming a cooperative that now supports 22 members," she said. 

Her neighbour, Dina Banda, reflected, "I should have joined sooner," acknowledging the transformative impact of the beekeeping initiative.

Beekeeping has the potential to contribute to all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by improving food production systems from subsistence methods to advanced technologies. Traditionally a male-dominated activity, beekeeping is rapidly becoming more inclusive as women actively participate in all aspects, from practical work to marketing and training. 

This shift allows women with limited financial resources to establish income-generating activities with minimal additional workload. Recognizing the unique role of women in agriculture and their vulnerability to climate change, the SCRALA project focuses on building climate resilience for female-headed households and rural enterprises.