Nakuru: An Egerton University student has innovated an award-winning project that uses house fly maggots to manage organic waste and produce cheap and nutritious feeds for fish, poultry, and pigs. Phillip Nyange is the brains behind the innovation dubbed ‘Turning Waste into Wealth by Rearing Housefly Maggots,’ which he terms as a game-changer in the environment conservation and animal feeds sectors.
According to Kenya News Agency, Nyange emerged as the national winner in the insect-rearing category in this year’s edition of the ‘Youth in Agriculture Awards (YIAA).’ The innovation was evaluated on its creativity, feasibility, environmental impact, and cost-efficiency, with the innovator set to receive coaching to commercialize his project. This aims to provide significant relief to farmers who have traditionally relied on expensive feeds that reduce their profit margins.
The innovation addresses waste management challenges in urban centers by utilizing house flies, often dismissed as dirty insects, to produce cost-effective feeds. Nyange explained that maggot-produced feeds are high in nutrient value, containing over 60 percent proteins and fats compared to conventional feeds with only about 10 percent proteins. The process involves trapping adult house flies for mating and egg production, with the larvae feeding on organic waste like manure and coagulated blood until they are harvested and processed into high-protein powder.
Nyange emphasized the need for more innovation due to climate change affecting traditional farming methods. The project offers a sustainable food system by reducing reliance on expensive protein sources and adapting to urban and harsh climate conditions. The waste residue is transformed into compost, contributing to soil health.
The project was inspired by global concerns about sustainable food systems as the world’s population is expected to reach 10 billion by 2050. Nyange is seeking to scale his project and engage in collaborative work, employment, or apprenticeships. He aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice in animal production, offering solutions that are affordable, scalable, and environmentally responsible.