Ibrahim al-Dabba, a Gaza beekeeper, has seen his life’s work decimated by war, losing over 400 hives and his home. Despite these losses, he continues to care for his remaining colonies on a rooftop in Gaza City, symbolising hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
With only 35 hives left, al-Dabba’s efforts are not just about honey production; they represent a fight to preserve a way of life that has been shattered. He emphasizes the importance of bees in sustaining local agriculture, noting that without them, food production is jeopardised.
The challenges he faces are immense, with essential supplies becoming scarce and expensive. Yet, al-Dabba’s determination to rebuild his apiary reflects a broader struggle for survival among Gazans, who are adapting to harsh conditions.
His story highlights the interconnectedness of beekeeping and agriculture in Gaza, where every surviving hive is a beacon of hope. Al-Dabba believes that as long as there are beekeepers like him, there is a chance for life to flourish again in the region.
Source: The Guardian
