On September 24, 2024, the Maltese honey bee was officially declared Malta’s national insect, joining a select group of native flora and fauna that hold national significance. This important recognition not only honours the bee’s cultural and ecological roots in Malta but also opens the door for more meaningful efforts towards its conservation and, in a wider sense, Malta’s biodiversity.
The Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee was the driving force behind the successful declaration of this status. But this designation must not be merely symbolic and be left at that. It must serve as a catalyst for more meaningful and lasting actions. If we are to secure the future of the Maltese honey bee, and with it a thriving and sustainable apicultural sector in Malta and Gozo, we must act decisively.
Just as a ship requires a map to reach its destination, the conservation of this endemic subspecies for the Maltese islands needs a well-planned, strategic approach. That’s why the foundation is taking the lead once again, this time by launching a comprehensive ‘Action Plan for the Conservation of the National Insect’.
Announced on July 1, this initiative marks the beginning of a structured and transparent process that will result in a guiding framework for the Maltese honey bee’s conservation. At the core of this process are the principles of transparency, participation and accountability.
The first phase of the process is now under way. A statement of intent has been published, outlining the objectives that will guide the development of the action plan.
The foundation is now looking outward and actively seeking feedback on the content to ensure that the final plan reflects not just the vision of a few, but the collective voice and aspirations of the broader community.
We invite all stakeholders including beekeepers, environmental NGOs, educators, scientists, policymakers and members of the public to give their input by September 30. The feedback may be submitted through forms in English and Maltese.
This initiative is being independently led by the foundation, and it is grounded in the conviction that lasting conservation must be both scientifically sound and community-empowered, rooted in the unique identity of the Maltese islands and our collective responsibility towards our country and its treasures, including natural heritage.
Together, we can ensure that the Maltese honey bee, a symbol of resilience, culture and biodiversity, thrives for generations to come.
This article is written by Dylan Farrugia and Abner Joe Buttigieg, administrators of the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee.
