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East Africa Frontline News

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October 01.2025

2 Minutes Read

Iraq's Honey Crisis: Extreme Heat and Drought Threaten Local Bees

Man examining beehive amid Iraq's Honey Crisis under drought conditions.

Threats to Bees: A Ripple Effect on Agriculture

The majestic banks of the Shatal Arab River in Basra, once vibrant with greenery and buzzing with life, now face a dire ecological crisis that threatens one of humanity's unsung heroes: the bee. Extreme temperatures and a saltwater surge have wreaked havoc on a landscape that once flourished with date palms and, consequently, bee hives. Mahmud Shakar, a seasoned professor of agriculture and beekeeper, warns that this water crisis is not just about the mortality of bees but the ensuing agricultural collapse that follows.

In 'Extreme heat and drought threaten Iraq’s bees and honey production,' the discussion dives into the environmental challenges facing one of the natural world's keystone species, prompting further exploration of the broader implications of this crisis.

The Economic and Cultural Toll of Honey Production Declines

Iraq’s honey production is projected to plummet by 50% this year, drawing a grim line between the environmental and economic sectors. The land that once yielded an impressive 30 tons of honey is now barely scraping six tons. For the beekeepers of Basra, this isn’t just a statistic; it represents the slow erosion of a cultural heritage that has thrived for centuries. The image of overturned hives reveals more than lost revenue—it reflects a fading tradition and the deep-rooted connection between the land and its stewards.

Environmental Changes Demand Urgent Attention

The current crisis we face is a stark reminder that environmental changes, particularly in regions like Iraq, can have far-reaching consequences. As wars have shaped the country's soil, now it’s the tides of saltwater and parched earth that might dictate its future. How can the world help combat these transformations? The plight of Basra's bees calls for international discourse and collaboration to ensure sustainable agriculture and environmental practices for the benefit of humanity as a whole.

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Iraq's Honey Crisis: Extreme Heat and Drought Threaten Local Bees

Threats to Bees: A Ripple Effect on Agriculture

The Economic and Cultural Toll of Honey Production Declines

Environmental Changes Demand Urgent Attention

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