A LIST OF SOUTH AFRICAN BEEKEEPING ASSOCIATIONS

A List of South African Beekeeping Associations and Their Benefits

This article is part of our complete guide to Starting Beekeeping in South Africa.

Joining a beekeeping association in South Africa gives new and experienced beekeepers access to training, mentorship, advocacy, and community support.

These groups operate at national and provincial levels and are valuable for networking, staying informed, and accessing collective bargaining opportunities.

National Beekeeping Body

South African Bee Industry Organisation (SABIO)

• Website: www.sabio.org.za
• Represents commercial and hobbyist beekeepers
• Works with DALRRD, AgriSA, and international partners
• Coordinates national events, honey standards input, and advocacy
• Offers membership for individuals, co-ops, and associations

Provincial and Regional Associations

Western Cape

• Western Cape Bee Industry Association (WCBA)
  • Offers regular training and field days
  • Supports fynbos region and Cape bee genetics

Gauteng

• Gauteng Bee Industry Association (GBIA)
  • Focuses on urban and peri-urban beekeeping
  • Active in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and surrounds

KwaZulu-Natal

• KwaZulu-Natal Bee Farmers Association
  • Works with sugarcane and macadamia pollination
  • Offers support for small-scale rural operations

Limpopo

• Limpopo Beekeeping Forum
  • Active in rural bushveld and fruit-producing zones
  • Partners with provincial agriculture department

Eastern Cape

• Eastern Cape Beekeepers Association (ECBA)
  • Training-focused and supports women/youth projects

Mpumalanga

• Mpumalanga Beekeeping Development Association
  • Strong focus on community outreach and education

Benefits of Joining

• Discounted training courses
• Access to shared equipment or extraction centres
• Updates on disease outbreaks and legal changes
• Discounted entry to honey shows and expos
• Connection to mentors and bulk buyers

What It Costs

• Fees range from R150 to R750 per year
• Some offer group or co-op membership rates
• Includes access to WhatsApp groups, newsletters, and AGMs

How to Join

• Visit association websites or social media pages
• Fill out membership form and pay annual fee
• Attend events or training as a registered member

Tips When Choosing an Association

• Look for active programmes and regular communication
• Join one in your province to access field days and mentorship
• Check if the association aligns with your beekeeping scale (hobbyist, sideline, commercial)

Final Thoughts

Beekeeping associations help build skills, confidence, and access to the larger honey industry.

Whether you keep two hives in your backyard or run a full-scale apiary, joining a well-organised group gives you support, accountability, and growth opportunities.