Black soldier fly business reduces food waste, makes us over Sh50k in a month

What motivated you to start black soldier flies venture?

First, through my first venture, Mushroom Kenya, I interacted with so many farmers who always mentioned the cost of feeds as one of the biggest challenges that they faced. I researched and realised that black soldier flies were a good source of proteins for animals yet easy to start and require less space to set up. I got interested and decided to help the farmers address the challenge.

Roussoss Demisse and the black soldier flies at his farm. [Photos: Silas Nyamweya]

Is there a special licence/certificate needed to start operating this type of business?

No. A licence might be needed at the value addition stage. For example, when you are formulating an animal feed from black soldier flies and the Kenya Bureau of Standards has to inspect and certify it.

What are some of the key challenges?

One of the main challenges in black soldier fly farming in Kenya is scaling up the operations to be able to seriously compete with traditional animal feed suppliers at an industrial level.

How have you personally benefited from this venture? Any opportunities you have got as a result?

The venture has enabled me to lower the cost of feeds for my poultry project, which has allowed me to channel the feeds' cost to other projects. The project has also helped us create connections with farmers and share ideas.

How much do you make in a month?

We make between Sh35,000 and Sh50,000 from product sales, farm visits and training.