You are here: Home > > About Food for Good > Big Beehive Build Blog - Marnie Millard

Day 3: We did it!

The finished beehives. The finished beehives.

By Marnie Millard, Nichols Plc

4 June 2015

Marnie is one of nine senior women from the UK food industry taking part in Farm Africa's Big Beehive Build.

Well we did it – nine ladies, three days and 90 hives all done.

I am back at Kilimanjaro airport now ready for my return journey, albeit I have another week’s work to complete in Dubai before I eventually land back in Manchester.

I have to say Manchester is the most well supported team in the area of Babati with many football shirts worn proudly.

Well, what a three days it has been! For us newcomers to the project I was not sure what to expect of the three days. However, the warmth of the welcome I received from my other eight lady beehive builders, the wonderful villagers of Erri and all the great staff at Farm Africa was truly magnificent.

The task ahead of us on Tuesday looked a big challenge, but we soon got ourselves organised and by the end of Day 2 we had really broken the back of the building. With the expert painting from the village artists we were proudly able to hand over the entire 90 hives to the local community during an official end of project ceremony.

We must remember our reason for the build was around creating sustainable income generation for the ladies of the village. We met some very determined ladies, including the wonderful Rachel who clearly will use the hives to take her onto much greater things in her life.

During the project we also managed to raise a magnificent £27,000. We would like thank our supporters for their kind generosity. We are in no doubt the money will be put to good use in those countries which most definitely require our support.

Finally, in doing a great project we have had a ball at the same time. It has been hard work but really good fun, particularly after a G&T in the evening to soothe the weary limbs. I for one can’t wait for the next challenge!

Follow the action at #BigBeehiveBuild or @FarmAfrica 

Inspired? Sponsor Marnie here.

View all Big Beehive Build blog entries.

Stay up to date with the latest news and projects