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Beekeeping: A Cultural and Economic Legacy
In the arid yet biodiversity-rich region of Toujane, beekeeping is more than just an economic activity; it is a cultural heritage passed down through generations. The village, home to 160 families, all of whom are involved in beekeeping to varying degrees, boasts a rich and diverse flora that provides the ideal conditions for this centuries-old practice. "Beekeeping is a calling that we inherit," shares one local beekeeper. "Even those who do not keep bees for a living have one or two hives for personal consumption."
The cultural significance of beekeeping is so profound that the local primary school incorporates it into its curriculum, teaching children the skills needed to carry on this legacy. However, as with many traditional practices, modern challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have threatened the sustainability of this important livelihood. It was in response to these pressures that the agricultural cooperative SMSA Zitouna was founded, providing a collective solution grounded in the principles of the Social and Solidarity Economy. This cooperative was established with the support of the ILO through its Jeun'ESS project, which aims to promote youth-led initiatives and foster entrepreneurial opportunities within the Social and Solidarity Economy framework.
Strengthening Livelihoods through Cooperative Action
"One hand cannot clap," as the Tunisian proverb goes, emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation. This spirit of solidarity became the foundation of SMSA Zitouna. Established during the COVID-19 pandemic, the cooperative emerged as a lifeline for local beekeepers, enabling them to pool resources, share knowledge, and gain access to markets that were otherwise out of reach.
Thanks to initial funding from the Jeun'ESS project, the cooperative was able to provide its members with 60 hives in its first year, a number that has now nearly doubled to 112. For beekeepers like the cooperative's founder, this growth is a source of immense pride. "I see it as a success, thank God," he says. "Most beekeepers in the region benefited from the equipment we received, and our cooperative offers training for beginners as well as follow-up support."
The cooperative also facilitates access to markets, helping members showcase their high-quality, 100% organic honey at fairs and other trade events. While the cooperative has made significant strides, it continues to dream big. One of its key aspirations is to establish a distinctive trademark for their honey, ensuring that this unique product-made from the diverse flora of Toujane-receives the recognition it deserves.
ILO's Role in Promoting Sustainable Development
The ILO's support to SMSA Zitouna through the Jeun'ESS project aligns with its broader strategy of promoting decent work and sustainable livelihoods through the Social and Solidarity Economy. By fostering cooperative models such as SMSA Zitouna, the ILO helps communities build resilience against external shocks, including climate change and economic crises, while also promoting the preservation of local cultural heritage.
Through its technical and financial assistance, the ILO ensures that local initiatives like SMSA Zitouna have the resources they need to thrive. This includes not only support for physical infrastructure, such as beekeeping equipment, but also capacity-building programs aimed at enhancing the skills of cooperative members, improving the quality of their products, and facilitating access to domestic and international markets.
The Path Forward: Preserving Tradition and Expanding Impact
The cooperative model offers a sustainable pathway for preserving Toujane's beekeeping tradition while also creating new economic opportunities. Looking ahead, SMSA Zitouna aims to reduce its reliance on external sources by breeding local bees and expanding its hive numbers. "Next year, I will start selling some of my bees to other beekeepers in the region," says the cooperative's founder. "We would like to stop bringing bees from the north."
These ambitious plans, coupled with the cooperative's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of organic production, point to a bright future for the beekeeping industry in Toujane. As the cooperative continues to grow, it will play an increasingly vital role in enhancing the economic and social well-being of the region's inhabitants.
A Model for Sustainable Development
SMSA Zitouna exemplifies the potential of the Social and Solidarity Economy to empower communities, preserve cultural heritage, and promote sustainable livelihoods. With the continued support of the ILO through the Jeun'ESS project, this cooperative model is helping beekeepers in Toujane to not only survive but thrive in the face of modern challenges. As they work toward securing a trademark for their honey and building a self-sustaining beekeeping industry, SMSA Zitouna stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when local communities unite around a shared vision, backed by the right tools and resources.
Through its ongoing commitment to initiatives like SMSA Zitouna, the ILO reaffirms its dedication to fostering inclusive, sustainable development in Tunisia and beyond.
