One of the most impactful successes of the Africa Center of Excellence in Sustainable Use of Insects as Food and Feeds (INSEFOODS) is the groundbreaking research conducted at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), which has transformed a humble insect into a catalyst for change.
The journey began in the university’s postgraduate program, where student research projects focused on unlocking the potential of insects. The INSEFOOD team, led by brilliant young minds, established a cutting-edge insect farm to sustainably rear crickets and, more importantly, the Black Soldier Fly (BSF). Globally recognized for its exceptional nutritional value, the BSF is a true “wonder insect” offering a high-protein, cost-effective alternative to traditional animal feeds like fishmeal and soy.
Research at JOOUST has extensively documented the diverse benefits of Black Soldier Fly (BSF) rearing, highlighting its nutritional, environmental, health, and economic advantages. BSF larvae are rich in protein and essential fatty acids, making them an excellent livestock feed. Environmentally, BSF rearing requires minimal resources, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and promotes sanitation by converting organic waste into valuable biomass, including organic fertilizer, while also mitigating odors and offering potential for sustainable energy production. Health-wise, BSF aids in controlling pests, vectors, and pathogens, and its use as feed can enhance livestock immunity due to its low pathogenicity. Economically, the simplicity and rapid production of BSF present a profitable income source for communities.
The success of the research and the establishment of the BSF rearing units at JOOUST caught the attention of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Mastercard Foundation. Recognizing the potential to scale findings for widespread impact, they collaborated with INSEFOODS on a project titled, “Creating Innovative and Sustainable Models for the Feed Industry,” as part of the FAO Kenya Livestock Feed Commercialization Project.
This powerful partnership led to the development of a comprehensive training manual, “What You Need to Know About BSF Production and Feed Commercialization“. Leveraging this resource, the project embarked on an ambitious mission to train and empower local communities.
The results have exceeded all expectations. INSEFOODS has successfully trained over 2,000 youths and women and equipped them with BSF rearing kits, providing them with the practical tools to immediately apply their new skills. The trainees, primarily small-scale farmers involved in poultry, pig, and fish farming, now have access to a sustainable and affordable feed source that will significantly improve their yields and livelihoods.
This is more than just a training program; it is the genesis of a new industry. By transforming a wonder insect into a commercial reality, we are not only addressing critical feed shortages but also fostering a new generation of entrepreneurs, building more resilient food systems, and promoting a greener, more prosperous future for all.
