This archive report was first published on 10 August 2019.
At Terrasol Farm in Red Hill, Kiambu County, 23-year-old Talash Huijbers is revolutionizing the livestock feed industry with her innovative black soldier fly farming venture.
With a background in International Food and Agribusiness from the Netherlands, Huijbers identified a gap in the market for naturally produced and affordable proteins for livestock.
"I researched and found out that the common source of protein in animal feeds is fish, but this is dwindling due to overfishing and pollution. We realised that we could provide livestock farmers with an alternative to fish and synthetic proteins which are extremely expensive by growing black soldier flies, which have high levels of protein," she says.
According to the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (Icipe), the fly's larvae contain high protein and fat levels, 42 per cent and 29 per cent respectively, making them one of the world's most recommended sources of protein for animal feeds.
Huijbers' farm produces an average of six tonnes of crushed black soldier flies per month, which she sells to poultry and cattle keepers at Sh90 to Sh100 per kilo.
"The larvae are normally mixed with other feeds for livestock such as pigs and chickens," she explains.
Despite the challenges she faces, particularly at the hatching stage, Huijbers remains optimistic about the future of her venture.
"Hatching is very delicate and the success rate is very low depending on factors such temperature and humidity," she notes.
However, with research and experience, Huijbers has managed to increase her hatching rate significantly.
"If anyone wants to grow the flies, it is recommended they buy already hatched larvae, which have more chances of survival. The thing is start small and be open-minded," she advises.
