Gaza's beekeepers put the buzz back into their business

Ibrahim Al Dabba, a beekeeper from Gaza, once owned around 400 hives on farmland east of Gaza city. Unfortunately, the war destroyed most of his hives. Upon the signing of a ceasefire in January 2025, he returned to beekeeping, salvaging and repairing 30 hives. He relocated them to his family's rooftop. "I was among the few beekeepers who returned to the profession," he said.

Before October 7, 2023, Gaza had over 40,000 hives tended by 500 beekeepers, producing 400 tons of honey annually. The war destroyed more than 90% of Gaza's beekeeping sector, causing significant financial losses, and killing dozens of beekeepers. Surviving beekeepers are determined to preserve the tradition. Gaza's honey used to be among the finest in the world, but now, the quality has changed.

Bees often rely on sugar and artificial feed due to the loss of their natural food supply. Beekeeping in Gaza is challenging due to Israeli restrictions on goods and materials. Amin Eid, another beekeeper, notes that the cost of essential materials has skyrocketed, making honey a luxury. Despite the difficulties, beekeeping remains a crucial income source for many.