DOI: 10.11648/j.sdan.20260102.12 ISSN: 3142-8983

Participatory Evaluation and Demonstration of Tensheratach (Horizontal Frame Hive) in Kofale District of West Arsi Zone of Oromia, Ethiopia

Taye Beyene, Mekonen Woldetsadik, Desta Abi
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The study was conducted in Kofale District of west Arsi zone with the objectives of to demonstrate and evaluate the horizontal frame hive under frames conditions, to create awareness about this hive technology in the study area, and to assess farmers' perceptions and preferences of the new hive technology. The district was purposively selected based on potentiality for honey production. Two kebele’s were selected purposively based on potential of beekeeping. Selected farmers were organized into two Farmer Research and Extension Groups (FREGs) comprising 20 members. Awareness creation training and experience sharing field day was carried out to facilitate experience exchange among participants. The horizontal frame hive was demonstrated and evaluated alongside the traditional hive under actual farm conditions. Honeybee colonies were introduced at trial sites and routinely inspected to monitor their development. At maturity, honey was harvested and extracted using a mechanical extractor. The data collected were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics and partial budget analysis, while farmers' preferences and perceptions were analyzed using a five-point Likert scale rating method. The results of the analysis show that an average honey yield of 23.40 kg/hive and 6.21 kg/hive was obtained from horizontal frame hives and traditional hives, respectively. The result showed that there is a statistically significant difference (p<0.05) between horizontal frame hives and traditional hives. The cost benefit analysis also showed that the highest net benefit (12,490 ETB/hive) was obtained from horizontal frame hive as compared to traditional hive (2,150 ETB/hive). Moreover, farmers’ perception results also show that the horizontal frame hive was preferred by participant farmers for its ease of management and inspection, honey quantity and purity, savings in labor and time, and reduced colony disturbance and mortality. Therefore, the horizontal frame hive is recommended for further scaling up to reach a greater number of farmers with this beneficial technology.

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