Conclusion
“A significant part of agricultural production here comes from beekeeping,” explains Ezra Uzun, Provincial Director of Agriculture and Forestry. “Düzce also safeguards the Yığılca queen bee strain in a special isolated zone. Combined with our forests, this gives us unique advantages.”
However, the climate crisis is reshaping rainfall patterns and seasonal cycles, affecting bee health and honey yields. Meanwhile, a decreasing rural population threatens the sustainability of farming.
Uzun believes the answer lies in collaboration: “Together with FAO, we are working on projects that improve production and branding but also encourage young people to stay in rural areas. Our vision is to pass on agricultural heritage to new generations, combining it with knowledge and technology.”
FAO Assistant Representative in Türkiye, Ayşegül Selışık, echoes that vision, “Düzce has tremendous natural advantages for beekeeping. Yet many young people and women face barriers to entering the sector. By providing training, technical support and entrepreneurial skills, we are helping them turn these assets into sustainable livelihoods. The goal is not only to strengthen beekeeping today, but also to ensure that future generations can thrive here.”
Standing among her hives, Züleyha is optimistic about opportunities in beekeeping. “With FAO’s training and the support of our community, I can see a future here—not just for me, but for the next generation of beekeepers in Düzce.”
“Don’t be afraid to try,” she advises other young people. “With the right information and support, you can succeed. And with modern technology, you can sell your products not just locally, but even internationally.”
In the winter period, when her bees rest, she paints landscapes, animals and the tiny buzzing friends she misses.
“From now on, my life follows the rhythm of the bees. My art helps me to stay connected to them even during these quiet months,” she says with a smile. FAO News
