How varsity student makes biogas using black soldier fly

Biogas cooker. (Courtesy)

What impact does your venture, black soldier fly business, have in your community?

Black soldier fly recycling business addresses waste management issues while contributing to sustainable energy solutions and organic farming.

My work creates a positive impact in Awendo, Migori County, fostering a greener community and promoting environmental awareness.

In an era where sustainable practices are becoming increasingly crucial, the black soldier fly (BSF) is an innovative solution for organic waste management and renewable energy production. By transforming organic waste into valuable resources, BSF not only addresses the pressing issue of waste disposal but also contributes to the generation of biogas, a clean and renewable energy source. This remarkable insect plays a dual role: it efficiently recycles organic materials while producing energy that can power homes, businesses, and agricultural operations. As communities seek eco-friendly alternatives to fossil fuels, harnessing the potential of BSF for biogas production presents a promising pathway toward a more sustainable future.  

Take us through the processes of Biogas Production Using BSF.

First, I collect organic waste which includes food scraps, agricultural residues and other organic materials. I then feed the collected organic waste to BSF larvae, which convert it into biomass while producing biogas

After the larvae grow, I harvest them. The remaining waste undergoes anaerobic digestion to produce biogas.

The final part includes Biogas collection whereby I capture the biogas produced during digestion, using it for cooking, heating, or generating electricity.

What about fertilizer?

Once the larvae mature, I harvest them, and collect the remaining frass (organic residue). I dry and package the frass for sale as a high-nutrient organic fertilizer.

Our fertilizer is rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This helps in promoting sustainability in agriculture as well as enhancing soil structure and microbial activity.

How is biogas as a source of energy unique compared to the regular energy sources?

Biogas is sustainable energy source which helps in reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Besides, the operational costs, the prices are low compared to traditional energy sources. It should also be remembered that this process helps manage organic waste effectively.

What is your marketing and outreach approach for your product?

I conduct workshops to educate potential clients about the benefits of biogas and frass. I also extensively make use of platforms like Facebook and Instagram to share success stories and product benefits to the audience.

Besides, I collaborate with agricultural cooperatives to reach a wider audience.

How much do you make in a good month?

I am glad this business is able to provide a steady income, supporting my livelihood. Depending on the scale, I can earn anywhere from $50 (Sh6.470) to $200 (25,880) per month, based on product sales and local demand. What I have cherished more is that I have acquired knowledge in waste management and renewable energy. Currently I am an agriculture student at Kenyatta University.

What fuelled your interest in BSF farming and where did you get the skills to make the products?

My interest in BSF stems from a desire to address waste management and promote sustainability in my community.

I acquired knowledge through research (having tackled a unit on environmental waste management), online Waste management catalogues, Field Trips, and local workshops on biogas production and BSF farming.

Does this relate to your childhood dream/vision?

Reflecting on whether this is my childhood dream, my strong interest in sustainability or agriculture shapes my current path.

Your parting shot?

The black soldier fly is as a powerful ally in the quest for sustainable energy and effective waste management. By converting organic waste into biogas, BSF not only helps reduce landfill burden, but also offers a clean energy alternative that can significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions.

The potential for BSF to transform waste into wealth is immense, paving the way for a circular economy where resources are reused rather than discarded.

As we move toward a more sustainable future, embracing black soldier fly technology for biogas production is not just a beneficial choice—it’s a necessary step toward fostering a healthier planet for generations to come.