The project is implemented by the Nyungwe Beekeeper Union (Ubwiza bwa Nyungwe) and aims at strengthening the commitment of beekeepers and other community members for the conservation of Nyungwe National Park. The following activities are planned:

? Sell honey and other bee products on behalf of its member co-operatives in order to increase sales (WCS has recently supported the construction of a honey processing and sales center for the union)
? Act as a link between the co-operatives and the wider world
? Provide training and equipment for beekeepers
? Assist in the development of additional co-operatives

The rationale for the Union becoming the main buyer and seller for its member co-operatives is that this will result in efficiencies of scale and allow the beekeepers access to bigger and more distant markets. It will ensure that the co-operatives receive a fair price for their honey and other bee products. The Union will apply for organic certification from the Rwanda Bureau of Standards (RBS), thus allowing a premium to be charged for the honey.
The grant from GEF SGP will provide the Union with a start-up fund to enable it to:
? Buy from the co-operatives the honey they produce
? Train beekeepers in its member co-operatives to produce honey that meets RBS requirements
? Pay for initial RBS certification