An island-led project to provide beekeeping training in Burundi has had to be postponed.

St John’s-based Harry Owens, 83, was due to fly out to the east African state this week on a three-week mission to teach modern beekeeping techniques.

Thousands of pounds had been raised in the island for the Christian Aid-led project and some £2,500 worth of equipment has already been sent out.

But now things have been put on hold after the Burundi government suspended all activity by international Non-Government Organisations.

The authorities say all NGO activity will be suspended for three months while checks are made that they are complying with new legislation.

Harry said: ’I am really disappointed not to be going now, but this situation is out of our hands and my first thoughts are with the workers and beneficiaries in Burundi and for the safety of all.

’I’ve got everything ready for the training and have a lot of resources ready to take out, and have had a lot of support from people on the island, so I’m definitely ready to go as soon as the situation is resolved and I am able - probably in the spring now.’

Louise Whitelegg, of Christian Aid, said: ’Naturally, we are all extremely disappointed but this is the right thing to do in the circumstances.

’We are confident that this project will continue and that the visit will be rescheduled in the near future. I have been bowled over and delighted with all the support from everyone in the island.

’It just goes to show what we can do when we put our minds to it.’

Louise added: ’The Christian Aid team in Burundi are working closely with the Burundian government and are in the process of putting together the required documentation to receive our approval to resume operations.’

Harry, a leading member of the island’s Beekeepers’ Federation, said the trip’s main objective was to train people in the basics of beekeeping.