IT is surprising to see the bright prospect of honey venture in the war-infected and militancy-infested area of Pakistan. South Waziristan is an area of lush green mountainous range, great diversity of forest wealth, natural flora and scrubs where bee-farming activity can be done at the cottage and domestic level.

According to honey experts, South Waziristan has the most unique wild species of honeybee, Apis flora which can be best reared and harvested due to favourable climatic and environmental conditions.

Lab reports reveal that this type of honey has a beneficial and healthy impact on the human body.

It can also be utilised by diabetic patients due to its low contents of sugar and other carbohydrates. Its byproducts such as royal jelly and bee-wax are used in the food and cosmetic industry, respectively. Due to crop pollination the yield of fruits, vegetables and crops can be increased.

Nurturing the industry of honey in Waziristan is being supported by the army, Pakistan Agriculture Research Centre, Pakistan Bee-keeping Association and the Department of Non-Timber Forest Producer.

The industry will not only empower the socioeconomic status of tribal people but will also help to bridge the gap of mistrust between tribal and government authorities.

ZIAULLAH MAHSUDSouth Waziristan