“Georgian Bees Are Unique and Globally Recognized” – Songulashvili Highlights Importance of Bee Conservation at Mukhuri Breeding Base

Levan Ujmajuridze, Director of the Agricultural Scientific Research Center, introduced Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture David Songulashvili to the infrastructural and technical capabilities of the Mukhuri beekeeping breeding base, as well as the ongoing efforts to preserve the gene pool of local bee populations and support breeding initiatives.

Operating since 2017, the Mukhuri base plays a crucial role in both scientific research and the protection and reproduction of the Megrelian population of the Georgian mountain gray bee.

“Beekeeping has deep roots in Georgia. Our aim is to actively support all sectors with real potential to bring economic benefit. Georgian bees are unique and internationally recognized, and their protection and reproduction are essential. This is why the Mukhuri base holds such significance,” said David Songulashvili.

During the visit, a meeting was held with local beekeeping farmers, where challenges facing the sector—particularly bee diseases—were discussed. The Minister emphasized the need to raise awareness and promote knowledge-sharing to effectively combat these issues.

The Mukhuri base is actively engaged in queen bee breeding, preserving the purity of the Mingrelian bee population, and implementing instrumental methods to ensure precision in breeding practices. The center also regularly hosts open days, training sessions, and both theoretical and practical workshops for beekeepers and interested stakeholders—including young people—to foster the growth and modernization of the beekeeping sector in Georgia.

Minister Songulashvili was accompanied by Deputy Minister Kakha Kakabadze, Head of the National Food Agency Zurab Chekurashvili, Director of the Rural Development Agency Giorgi Darchia, and representatives of local self-government.