HOMA BAY FARMERS TURN TO BLACK SOLDIER FLY LARVAE TO CUT POULTRY FEED COSTS

Poultry farmers in Homa Bay County are turning to black soldier fly larvae as a cheaper source of protein for their chickens as the cost of commercial feeds continues to put pressure on small-scale farmers.

According to a report by NTV Kenya, farmers are rearing the insects and using the larvae as an alternative to commercial poultry feed. Some farmers say the practice has helped lower their feeding costs while keeping their birds healthy. 

Black soldier fly larvae are produced by allowing adult flies to lay eggs before transferring the eggs to containers containing organic waste such as vegetable scraps, food waste and animal manure.

The larvae feed on the waste and develop rapidly, taking about 10 to 14 days before reaching the pre-pupal stage. They can then be harvested and used as a protein-rich feed ingredient for poultry. 

Farmers say the approach has reduced their reliance on commercial feeds, helping them manage production costs. Some have also reported improved egg production among their chickens.

Beyond providing an alternative source of poultry protein, black soldier fly farming offers a way of converting organic waste into useful agricultural products.

With feed costs remaining a major concern for poultry farmers, the approach is gaining attention as farmers look for more affordable and sustainable ways to keep their businesses running.