Lango Farmer Harvests 150,000 UGX Per Gram of Bee Venom With Help From Dutch Expert
Bob Ambrose Okello from Omito, Lira City, earns over 500,000 UGX quarterly from honey and up to 150,000 UGX per gram from bee venom. A Dutch expert’s visit is boosting beekeeping in Lango.
Regina Lalam
BY BOBSON OPIO
LIRA CITY LANGO - Okello revealed he harvests venom weekly using specialized equipment that stimulates bees to release venom without harming them. “I sell it per gram at between 130,000 and 150,000 shillings,” Okello said.
“The demand is high because bee venom is used in making medicines for arthritis, skin care products, and other health treatments. It is a business that many people do not know about, but it is very profitable.” With his success growing, Okello is now urging fellow residents to embrace beekeeping.
“I urge the people of Lango to venture into bee keeping because they can earn a lot of money from it,” he said. “You do not need a huge investment to start.
Even with a few hives, you can begin earning. The market for honey and venom is there, and it is growing.” Okello’s farm recently received a major boost when Annemieke Timmerman, a beekeeping specialist from the Netherlands, visited under PUM Netherlands Senior Experts an organization that provides technical assistance to entrepreneurs in developing countries.
The Dutch expert shared advanced skills on hive management, venom harvesting, disease control, and how to maximize productivity. “Having an expert from the Netherlands visit my farm is a great honor and a huge opportunity,” Okello added. “She has shared skills that will help me improve my production and earn even more. I am grateful to PUM for this support.
” Timmerman, who has extensive experience in commercial beekeeping, said she is optimistic about the potential of beekeeping in Lango. With proper training and modern techniques, she believes local farmers can increase yields and access international markets. Industry observers say beekeeping remains an underutilized venture in Northern Uganda, despite its potential for poverty alleviation and economic empowerment.
With successful farmers like Okello leading by example, and support from international experts, the future of the sector in the region looks promising. For now, Okello continues tending his hives with renewed energy — harvesting honey and venom, and hoping his story inspires the next generation of beekeepers in Lango.
