The South African Bee Industry Organisation (SABIO) is the national body representing the beekeeping sector. It unites beekeepers of all scales, from start-up and small-scale keepers to large commercial operators, alongside associations, co-operatives, and corporate partners.

SABIO represents members across the value chain and collaborates with regional associations around the country. The organisation supports ethical practice and skills development, shares regulatory updates, and connects the community through events and an annual industry conference. Membership is open to individuals, commercial and professional beekeeping entities, corporates that serve apiculture, and recognised associations or co-operatives. These categories help ensure representation for operations of different sizes and roles.

Why this matters is simple.

Honey bees underpin food security, pollinating a wide range of South African crops, and the industry depends on strong, coordinated stewardship. SABIO engages with government and allied partners to protect forage resources, promote best practice, and address sector needs so that beekeepers can focus on keeping healthy colonies and delivering reliable pollination services.

 

Attention Beekeepers

Due to ongoing technical issues with the SABIO website, please use this page and The Bee Effect’s social media for important notices and essential forms until further notice.

Why Join SABIO?

Becoming a member links you to the recognised voice of the beekeeping industry.

Membership means

Being represented at national and provincial levels on key issues affecting bees and beekeepers.

Access to a network of professionals, associations, and organisations such as the Northerns Beekeeping Association and Bhive Beekeeping Supplies.

Participation in SABIO events, training, and industry initiatives.

Staying informed on regulatory updates, best practices, and industry opportunities.

Every member helps strengthen collective advocacy for honeybee health and the resilience of South African pollination.

 

Membership Categories (2025/2026)

 

Start-up Beekeeper – R350 (1 vote)
For beekeepers in a recognised development programme under DALRRD.

Individual Membership – R480 (1 vote)
For independent beekeepers operating outside formal development programmes.

Professional Membership – R3000 (1 vote)
For commercial beekeepers, researchers, educators, consultants, and professionals providing beekeeping-related products or services.

Association / Co-operative Membership

Small (10–50 members): R1500 (up to 2 votes)

Medium (51–150 members): R4500 (up to 6 votes)

Large (151+ members): R7500 (up to 10 votes)

Corporate Membership – R5500 (1 vote)
For organisations, businesses, or institutions linked to apiculture, including suppliers, research, or educational bodies.

 

Download SABIO Registration Form

How to Apply

  1. Download the SABIO Membership Registration Form.

  2. Complete the form in full, selecting your category.

  3. Attach proof of payment and your current DALRRD Beekeeper Registration Certificate (required for all members).

  4. Email all documents to:

    sabiobees@gmail.com

Once approved, SABIO will issue your official membership certificate.

 Attention Beekeepers 

Please note the new email address for beekeeping registration with DALRRD: beeregister@dalrrd.gov.za

The revised registration form is available here, make sure you’re using the latest version!

Stay compliant and keep buzzing! 🐝

Download DALRRD Registration Form