On 16 May 2026 the Western Cape Bee Association hosted a workshop at Elsenburg agricultural college. Hobbyists, small scale beekeepers as well as commercial honey farmers and -pollinators attended. It was an interesting event with information as well as practical demonstrations and even the local hives at Elsenburg were inspected for any infestations.
Riaan van Zyl, as government representative, discussed the importance of registration at DALRRD, especially as beekeepers want a dedicated concern from government. It is therefore imperative that government has statistics and numbers to underwrite their interest in the WCBA and its members.
Riaan also discussed the Capensis line and the unfortunate outcome if the Capensis bees are taken over to the Scutellata areas. As beekeepers we should work responsibly with our bees, regarding the Capensis line. Attendees were informed about where the line runs.
Charles Salmon, who is the liaison between WCBA and the Dept. of agriculture, gave a very interesting lecture regarding foraging, theft, loss of colonies due to poisoning, floods, fires and vandalism. The importance of the gathering of statistics was discussed and members were encouraged to report theft and vandalism to the police. The department will only be able to function if the numbers indicate the necessity.
The necessity of an effective foraging task team was discussed. Bees and pollination are of the utmost importance in food production, and if the bees cannot eat, so can’t we.
Charles also gave an informative presentation of pests and diseases in the hive. Members had a practical session afterwards, identifying AFB in the hive.
For some of the newer members, seeing something like foul brood in a frame was a first and members really appreciated the practical part of the morning’s activities. Members brought their bee suits and geared up for an informative inspection of the hives at Elsenburg. No foul brood was found but members could see how a hive is inspected and told what to look out for.
Overall, it was an eventful day. Our beekeepers learnt a lot and we look forward to many future gatherings, as we explore the world of beekeeping.
The WCBA expresses its thanks to the department of agriculture for hosting us at Elsenburg Agricultural Training Institute.
