BY INDY MAEALASIA
FOR local beekeeper Rex Agita, tending to hives has become more than a way to make money, it’s a form of therapy, a calling and a mission to protect one of nature’s smallest but most vital creatures.
Celebrating World Bee Day alongside other passionate local beekeepers and businesses on Tuesday, May 20, Agita who now runs a small-scale bee farm in Henderson reflects on how his connection with bees began.
“I knew bees from Sunday school and that love grew throughout my teenage and high school years,” said Agita.
Over the years, his passion evolved into a deeper philosophy.
“I don’t really consider myself a beekeeper anymore, now I like to think, the bees keep me.”
Agita explained that beekeeping has also become a source of personal healing. “I use some of the honey for small remedies, like when I have a cough. It helps in ways beyond just the physical.”
As part of his mission to give back, Agita has joined the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) through their project Strengthening Beekeeping Industries for Production and Livelihood in the Solomon Islands.
The initiative seeks to revive a once-thriving local industry that has declined since its peak in the 1990s and early 2000s.
“I believe being part of this project will allow me to support other like-minded individuals,” he said. “Together, we could help revitalize the bee industry here.”
While interest in beekeeping remains among some farmers, Agita admitted that challenges persist.
“The industry faces serious threats from pests like the varroa mite; a devastating parasite many local beekeepers struggle to manage due to limited resources and knowledge.”
“One disease, we just cannot control it,” Agita said.
Through the project, efforts are also underway to support research and sustainable development in the Solomon Islands’ beekeeping sector.
Despite the challenges, Agita remains hopeful.
“I feel honored to work with such a small creature that has such a big impact,” he said. “Bees have been here long before us — I’m proud to be part of something that can help them continue to thrive.”
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