Kenyan farmers, initially frustrated by elephants damaging their crops, have found a transformative solution through beehive fences. This innovative approach, supported by Save the Elephants, effectively deters elephants using African bees, benefiting farmers like Charity Mwangome and Mwanajuma Kibula. While some farmers face challenges, including climate-related bee displacement, the method is more affordable than electric fencing. Alternative deterrents are also available, though not always effective. Meanwhile, Kenya celebrates the birth of elephant twins, reflecting the complex relationship between humans and wildlife.
A Transformative Approach to Coexistence with Elephants
Once upon a time, elephants were regarded with disdain by many Kenyan farmers, including Charity Mwangome, who now finds solace under the shade of a baobab tree. Surprisingly, the buzzing of bees in the background has played a pivotal role in changing her perspective.
Farmers like Mwangome, whose lands lie between two regions of Tsavo National Park, have often suffered significant losses due to elephants trampling their crops. While these majestic creatures attract tourists and contribute significantly to Kenya’s economy—accounting for around 10% of the GDP—they have been a source of frustration for farmers struggling to protect their livelihoods.
The conservation efforts for elephants have seen remarkable success, with their population in Tsavo soaring from approximately 6,000 in the mid-90s to nearly 15,000 by 2021, as reported by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). However, the growing human population is encroaching on vital grazing areas and migration paths, leading to increased conflicts and mammal mortality, as highlighted by KWS.
Innovative Solutions: Beehive Fences
Having previously received no compensation for her crop damage, Mwangome expressed her frustration towards environmental organizations. But then, a unique solution emerged from the charity Save the Elephants: using African bees to deter the elephants.
Beehive fences have been implemented around local farms, including Mwangome’s, and studies show that elephants tend to steer clear of areas inhabited by these buzzing insects in 86% of cases. “Beehive fences have come to our rescue,” Mwangome states, echoing the sentiments of many farmers benefiting from this innovative approach.
Loise Kawira, a beekeeping consultant for Save the Elephants, demonstrates how 70,000 bees can successfully scare off a six-ton elephant. She trains farmers on how to handle the hives delicately, as each of the 49 participating farmers has their plots protected by 15 interconnected beehives. These hives are cleverly suspended on greased wires to safeguard them from predators while producing a tremor when disturbed by approaching elephants.
Despite the effectiveness of this method, challenges remain. Recent droughts, worsened by climate change, have driven bees away, and establishing beehives can be expensive, costing around 150,000 Kenyan shillings (approximately 1,090 euros). However, advocates assert that this method is still more affordable than electric fencing. Just moments after arriving at Mwanajuma Kibula’s farm, which borders Tsavo National Park, her beehive fence successfully repelled an elephant, providing her with much-needed peace of mind.
Kibula, 48, also benefits from harvesting honey twice a year, earning her 450 shillings per jar (about three euros), which helps cover her children’s school fees. Unfortunately, not all farmers have the same fortune. Hendrita Mwalada, 67, recalls a terrifying incident where an elephant ripped off her roof, leaving her terrified for her life.
For those unable to employ beehive fences, Save the Elephants offers alternative deterrents, such as metal fences that create noise when disturbed or rags soaked in diesel or chili. Yet, these measures are not foolproof. Mwalada expresses her frustrations, lamenting, “I tried to plant, but every time the crops are ready, the elephants come and destroy them. It’s the story of my life, filled with too many difficulties.”
In a remarkable twist of nature, Kenya recently celebrated the extraordinary birth of elephant twins, showcasing the ongoing bond between humans and wildlife.