Kenyan scientists are promoting black soldier fly larvae as a viable, low-cost alternative to conventional livestock feed, citing economic and nutritional advantages. The Kenya Bureau of Standards has endorsed the practice, which involves rearing the insects on organic waste streams such as kitchen scraps and manure.
Dr. Isaac Osuga, a researcher at the International Centre for Insects and Physiology, emphasized the insect's high nutritive value and local availability. "Black soldier fly is an indigenous species that can be bred on kitchen waste and offers a sustainable protein source for pigs, poultry, and fish," he stated. The larvae's ability to convert organic waste into feed while reducing landfill burden is a key selling point.
Dr. Frederick Wangombe, an animal nutritionist, noted that reliance on imported soybean meal from Uganda and Tanzania drives up production costs. "Fish meal, a common feed, is often adulterated with sand or urea, further complicating its use," he said. Local companies like Ecodudu and Sanergy, along with cooperatives such as Kiamumbi Aquaculture, have begun commercializing insect-based feeds despite ongoing challenges in scaling production.
Lucy Mimano of Kiamumbi Aquaculture explained the shift: "We switched to black soldier flies after fish meal costs became unmanageable. Crickets were too expensive, so we focused on the larvae." The group, comprising 675 members, now produces its own fish feed using the insects.
Animal Production Society of Kenya Chairman Samuel Mbuku linked the initiative to broader climate resilience strategies. "Insect-based feeds reduce dependency on volatile global markets and align with sustainable agriculture goals," he said.
