“What began as a conversation in October 2024 has now become a reality,” said Lizzie Moli, Livelihood Coordinator at ActionAid Vanuatu. “Last week, history was made as we gathered at Tanna Coffee for the first-ever beekeeping training for women and girls with disabilities—an important step towards inclusive, sustainable livelihoods in Vanuatu and their economic security.”

The training was more than an educational workshop. Many participants had never seen a beehive before, and for some, it was their first encounter with bees. The programme began with nervous anticipation but quickly turned into a scene of laughter, curiosity, and growing confidence. Activities were designed to encourage adult learning and active participation.

Participants were introduced to the fundamentals of beekeeping, including the life cycle of bees, the roles of the queen, drone, and worker bees, and the ecological role of bees in food security. The training also explored how the structured organisation of a bee colony reflects the strength and unity within their own communities.

“This wasn’t just another training,” Moli said. “It was about recognising the ability and determination of our sisters with disabilities. Despite living with various impairments, their interest, courage, and willingness to learn came through at every stage.” ActionAid and WITTT believe this will support their economic independence and reduce their exposure to violence and neglect.

The training attracted strong support from local authorities, with representatives from the TAFEA Provincial Government Council, Area Administrators, Community Liaison Officers, and the Ministry of Justice’s Disability Desk present. Their attendance, Moli noted, reflects growing awareness of the importance of inclusive development at the local level.

One key outcome was the distribution of seven fully equipped beehives across the seven area councils in Tanna, enabling each community to establish its own beekeeping project. These beehives represent more than just income-generating tools—they symbolise opportunity, resilience, and social inclusion.

Ellen Tamata, a woman with a disability who also serves as the Disability Inclusion Programme Officer and WITTT Sunshine Coordinator, described the initiative as a turning point.

“This is the first time that women and girls with disabilities are involved in a livelihood project like this,” she said. “We started talking about it two years ago, and with funding support from SPC, we made it happen. It’s about showing our communities that we, too, can contribute, that we can lead and support ourselves.”

The programme forms part of the broader “Ni-Vanuatu Women with Disabilities Leading Resilience to Climate Change and Disaster” project. It aims to equip women with disabilities with the skills, confidence, and visibility needed to lead change within their communities.

Phillip Johnson, one of the trainers from Tanna Coffee, said participants were fully engaged throughout. “They asked plenty of questions and were eager to learn. We made sure to explain everything in ways that were clear to them. This training will help them manage their own beehives and earn daily income.”

Mocro Lava, WITTT Sunshine’s community mobiliser and participant, spoke of the emotional impact. “Before this training, many of us with disabilities felt we couldn’t contribute. But this gave us courage. It lifted us up and showed us that we can do something meaningful for our communities.”

As certificates were awarded on the final day, emotions ran high. The atmosphere was filled with pride, joy, and a sense of achievement. For many, it marked not just the end of a workshop, but the beginning of a new chapter.

ActionAid Vanuatu and its partners have delivered more than training and tools. They have expanded what inclusion can look like in climate-resilient livelihoods. As beehives begin to buzz across Tanna, the message is clear: women and girls with disabilities are not just participants—they are leaders and active contributors to Vanuatu’s future.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST