Pollinators play a crucial role in fruit production by transferring pollen from the male to the female parts of the plants. However, in recent years, there has been a growing concern about the decline of pollinator populations, posing concerns about their impact on food production and agriculture in general.

Kenya, known for its vibrant fruit farming industry, is also facing the ripple effects of declining pollinators.

Crops such as avocado, mango, pawpaw, and watermelon, which rely on insect pollination are at great risk. A study published in the Science Advances journal has indicated that land use and climate change have had serious implications for crop pollination.

On average, according to the study, nearly 75% of the fruits depend on pollination by animals. Millard said, “As insects decline, due to their inability to cope with the interacting effects of climate change, crops will also follow the same path. Pollinating these crops by hand will be labor-intensive and more costly.”

The importance of pollinators for fruit farming in Kenya

Pollinators, such as bees, birds, and butterflies, play an essential role in fruit farming. They are responsible for the transfer of pollen, a crucial step in the fertilization process of fruits. Ineffective or little pollination means that there will be poor fruit set, lower yields, and reduced income potential for farmers.

The presence of pollinators enhances the fruit's quality and nutritional value. This helps promote healthier and more resilient ecosystems in fruit farming regions.

The decline of pollinators and its impact on fruit farmers

Although the diverse landscape provides an ideal environment for pollinators, there have been concerns about the decline in their population.

So, what contributes to this?

The decline can be attributed to various factors, such as:

  • Habitat loss
  • Climate change
  • Pesticide use
  • Pests and diseases

The decreased pollination rates have had a huge impact on quality, fruit set, and overall yields. This, in turn, has had a direct impact on the fruit industry.

Solutions to protect pollinators and support fruit farmers

Everyone in the value chain has a role to play in protecting pollinators and supporting fruit farmers. Possible solutions are:

  • Adoption of sustainable farming practices. This means reducing the reliance on pesticides and creating a conducive environment for pollinators. Farmers need to learn and implement integrated pest management (IPM) practices to control pests and diseases without harming pollinators. 
  • Knowledge sharing. This move will help in developing innovative solutions and best practices to further protect pollinators. 
  • Education and awareness campaigns will foster a culture of pollinator protection and pollinator-friendly practices and products that they can use.

Keep a hive in your garden

As a fruit farmer, you understand that pollination is vital. Keeping a hive around and practicing bee farming near your orchards means that you will be able to navigate through the declining pollinator pollination.

At Frutunda, we are here to help you achieve this goal. We offer exceptional beehives of different sizes that you can use near your orchard as a pollination booster. Don’t let fruit set be complicated.

Contact us today!

Call / Text: 0710588060

What'sApp: https://wa.me/254710588060