Second International Forum for Action on
Sustainable Beekeeping and Pollination
Jimma (Ethiopia), 20/05/2025 - 22/05/2025
Bees and other pollinators are essential to food production, food security, and the economy, while also supporting human and ecosystem health. Their vital contributions span all three dimensions of sustainable development—economic, social, and environmental—enhancing both quality of life and long-term ecosystem health. Approximately 75 percent of the world’s top crop types producing fruits and seeds for human use depend at least partially on pollinators. Without pollinators, 5 to 8 percent of current global crop production would be lost, representing an annual market value of USD 235–577 billion. Despite the acknowledgement of their importance, many pollinator species worldwide are declining and at risk of extinction due to various pressures.
Social bees and beekeeping support the livelihoods of small and large-scale beekeepers, rural communities and Indigenous Peoples, contributing to honey production, food production, cultural heritage, and inspiration, ultimately fostering sustainable development. Since beekeeping can be practiced with locally available materials and minimal resources, it also creates income opportunities for vulnerable groups, including women, youth, and people in extreme poverty.
Recognizing the critical importance of bees and pollinators, the Government of Ethiopia, the Government of Slovenia, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) with the support of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and Apimondia, will organize the second International Forum on Sustainable Beekeeping, from 20 to 22 May 2025 in Jimma Town, Ethiopia. This annual event brings together governments and policymakers, scientists and knowledge holders, private sector, practitioners, non-governmental organizations and civil society to foster international cooperation on beekeeping and pollination, ensuring that policies and practices keep pace with evolving challenges and opportunities.
Taking place alongside World Bee Day 2025 the Forum serves as an opportunity to exchange experiences, showcase innovative beekeeping initiatives, inspire action for pollinator-friendly agriculture and global coordination and conservation efforts. Although global in scope, the Forum highlights a specific region each year. In 2025, the focus will be on Africa, with Ethiopia serving as the host country.
Stay tuned for more details on the agenda, speakers, and how to participate in this global call to action for sustainable beekeeping practices and pollinator conservation.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
All travellers except for citizens of Kenya and Djibouti are required to present e-Visa and valid passport to the immigration officer.
Print a copy of your approved e-visa: – Although not officially required, having a physical copy serves as a backup in case of electronic issues or discrepancies.
for Ethiopian e-Visa, please click here.
Taking place alongside World Bee Day 2025 the Forum serves as an opportunity to exchange experiences, showcase innovative beekeeping initiatives, inspire action for pollinator-friendly agriculture and global coordination and conservation efforts.
Second International forum for action on sustainable beekeeping and pollination 2025 will take place on May 20-22/2025 at Jimma (Ethiopia).
The Second International forum for beekeeping and pollination 2025 is open to anyone interested in agriculture, including farmers, researchers, policymakers, students. and industry professionals.
Attendees can expect engaging panel discussions, keynote speeches, networking opportunities. workshops, and exhibitions showcasing the latest advancements in international forum for beekeeping and pollination.
Registration for the international forum for beekeeping and pollination 2025 can be done through our online registration portal or by contacting our event development.
Please make sure to arrange for your airport pickup and drop off with the hotel you are booked with.
Your phone must be “unlocked” in order for it to work in Addis Ababa. Make sure to check with your provider regarding roaming agreements, if you need to be in roaming mode in Ethiopia.
Ethio Telecom and Safaricom are the two providers in Ethiopia. You can buy local SIM cards in the arrival terminal or around the city.
The weather in Jimma is cold with rain with temperatures +23°C degree Celsius, it is recommended you carry a jacket and umbrella.
Jimma is located at a high altitude so please note that the mornings and evenings are cold. It is also important to drink lots of water during your stay.
If you are traveling from a country that might be susceptible to yellow fever, please do not forget your yellow fever card.
Water: avoid tap water – please drink only bottled water
Food: Avoid uncooked vegetables and raw meat
Ethiopian currency is denominated in “birr”. The exchange rate fluctuates slightly daily. Please make sure to ONLY exchange your international currency (USD, Euro, Pounds) at official banks and exchange centers. Do not use the unofficial street market, please. As a growing city, many restaurants and hotels accept mainly VISA and MasterCard as form of payments. However, many of the cafes and smaller restaurants only accept cash. There are many ATMs around the city that accept VISA and MasterCard – all withdrawals are ONLY in Birr.
Ethiopia is known for its hospitality and welcoming citizens. Jimma is fast becoming a metropolitan city. Do not walk late at night – please use the taxis or call for your taxi using ride hailing apps.
While you are at the conference, please ensure that you:
- Always wear your badge in a visible manner
- Do not leave bags and parcels unattended, including phones, laptops and tablets – they will disappear, unfortunately
- Do not bring unauthorized persons into the Conference
- Look after your valuable property
- Check that you have all your documents and personal items before you leave conference halls and meeting rooms
- Inform the event staff if you lose anything valuable