downtoearth-subscribe

KENYA

A major programme of beekeeping and sericulture has been launched by the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) in Kenya. The project, it hopes, will alleviate rural poverty through small-scale incomegenerating enterprises. They will market honey, silk and wax to cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. For the first time in 20 years, Kenya has been able "to adapt" exotic silkworms to African conditions, says Hans Herren, director general Of ICIPE.

The situation changed since ICIPE's scientists began research to find a match for the mulberry trees silkworms feed on and to combat the viral and bacterial diseases attacking the worm larvae.

Funding Problems were resolved with ICIPE receiving us $1.3 million aid from the UN International Fund for Agricultural Development.

Related Content