Our story
Building Economic Independence Through Beekeeping

From Healing to Empowerment…
Founded in 2019,
by Richard Okoe, Women and Youth in Beekeeping Value Chain, Ghana (WYN-BG) began when rural women discovered honey’s healing power for their communities. What started as a natural remedy for skin ailments and illness became something bigger, a pathway to economic independence. Women built their first hives from tree branches and old fridges, proving that with determination and support, transformation is possible.
Today,
WYN-BG trains women and youth across rural Ghana in the full beekeeping and agroforestry value chain. We’ve grown from those first handmade hives to a comprehensive program that has trained 1,500+ women and youth and created 12,000 jobs. But our mission remains the same: empowering women to control their work, their product, and their profit.
Meet Our Team
Richard Okoe
Founder and President

Joana Paintsil
Chief Operating Officer

Rejoice Azameti
General Manager

OUR MISSION
WYN-BG empowers women and youth in rural Ghana who face systemic barriers to economic opportunity. By training them in sustainable beekeeping and agroforestry, we provide pathways to financial independence while protecting vital pollinators. We create transformed livelihoods, environmental conservation, and confident future generations.
OUR VISION
To be a part of a global partnership dedicated to empowering women and youth through beekeeping and agroforestry, scaling sustainable livelihoods that protect pollinators, strengthening communities, and setting a new standard for inclusive agricultural development.
OUR MEDIA COVERAGE
OUR MODEL
How We Create Lasting Change
Comprehensive Training
We provide 1-2 week intensive training in beekeeping fundamentals, hive management, honey processing, and market sales. We also train community ambassadors, who are experienced beekeepers who train others in their villages, creating a ripple effect of knowledge and empowerment.
Full Support System
Our training is just the beginning. We provide equipment (hives, protective suits, tools), buy honey directly from the women at fair prices, handle transportation to urban markets, and offer ongoing support. This ensures women have sustainable income without exploitation or market access barriers.

building sustainable futures
Our Values Drive Every Decision We Make
The Hive Decides
Women and youth govern the systems they operate, ensuring ownership, accountability, and shared leadership.
Everyone Teaches, Everyone Learns
Through peer training and mentorship, every member can learn from one another, strengthening the network as a whole.
Environmental Integrity
We protect biodiversity and reject practices that sacrifice long-term ecosystem health for short-term gains.

