In recent years, the black soldier fly (BSF) Hermetia illucens (L.) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) has garnered significant global attention due to its remarkable ability to convert organic material into valuable protein and fertiliser. This presents a promising and sustainable option for agricultural enhancement, specifically for developing low and middle-income tropical countries like Sierra Leone, where poor solid waste management, overreliance on subsidised imported synthetic fossil fuel fertiliser, and the unavailability of livestock feed remain significant challenges.
EntoTech Innovations, with funding from the Tony Elumelu Foundation and Diamond’s Do Good, has piloted the black soldier fly project in Kambia with the following milestones:
Minimum Viable Products
From our pilot project in Kamba, we have developed two market-ready minimum viable products (insect-based organic fertiliser and protein for livestock and aquaculture). We have done a cost-benefit analysis for these products and secured customers.
Partnership and internship opportunities
We have partnered with Njala University Living Lab, which provides technical support for breeding the black soldier fly larvae. We also recruit students from Njala as interns for whom we offer practical scientific experiences.
Scale-up of production
Considering Freetown’s daily volume of waste, we have established a standard breeding facility with a pest management unit at Pa Loko, Waterloo. Here we are targeting at least a ton of waste daily.
EntoTech Innovations 