Farmers turn to black soldier flies for cheaper fertilizer, feed

In Nyarubuye Village, Kamonyi District, Rwanda, farmers like Theodosie Mukamunana are transforming household waste into valuable resources. Instead of discarding vegetable peelings and leftover food, they are feeding them to black soldier flies.

This practice is part of an innovative initiative to create more affordable fertilizer and animal feed. The larvae of the black soldier fly consume organic waste rapidly, converting it into nutrient-rich frass, which serves as an excellent fertilizer. The flies themselves can also be processed into protein-rich feed for livestock and fish.

This method not only provides farmers with cost-effective agricultural inputs but also addresses waste management challenges. By diverting organic waste from landfills, it contributes to a more sustainable and circular economy within the community. The approach offers a practical solution for smallholder farmers seeking to improve their yields and reduce expenses.