FRANSCHHOEK - Farmers in Franschhoek say recent fires around the Cape Winelands town have dealt a devastating blow to local bee colonies.
One farmer alone has lost an estimated 70 beehives in the blazes.
The Cape Winelands District Municipality has confirmed that more than 24,000 hectares of vegetation were destroyed in the fires.
Between 20,000 and 30,000 honeybees were killed when the fires engulfed the area.
Researchers have underscored the critical role of honeybees in sustaining ecosystems, noting their contribution to food security and the broader economic benefits they generate.
- eNCA's Kevin Brandt reports.