A transformative agricultural innovation is taking root in Ghana, promising sustainable solutions for poultry, aquaculture, and vegetable production. The technology, which leverages the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) to convert organic waste into high-value products, is being championed by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) under its Black Soldier Fly for Bio-Circular Economy and Environmental Sustainability (BBEST) project.
At the recent Channel One Agrifair in Accra, Mr. Amuetey Nagetey, Interim Production Manager of the BSF Production Unit at IITA, shed light on the potential of this innovation to reshape Ghana’s agricultural landscape. The BBEST project team presented a live display of the BSF life cycle, engaging visitors with insights into the technology’s processes and benefits.
One of the key products showcased was certified BSF frass, an organic fertilizer approved by the Plant Protection and Regulatory Services Directorate (PPRSD) of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA). Mr. Nagetey described the technology as a moderate-cost, healthier protein source for animal feed and a tool for environmental sustainability. He explained that BSF technology converts fruit, vegetable, kitchen, and slaughterhouse waste into high-protein larvae, offering a sustainable and locally available alternative to expensive imported fishmeal and soybean meal.
The implications of this technology are far-reaching. For poultry and aquaculture farmers, it presents an opportunity to reduce feed costs significantly. With the high cost of imported fishmeal and soybean meal, many farmers struggle to maintain profitable operations. BSF larvae, with its high protein content, could be a game-changer, improving the bottom line for these farmers.
Moreover, the nutrient-rich residue known as frass has been shown to improve soil fertility and boost vegetable yields. Mr. Ankrah Twumasi, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Specialist for the BBEST project, highlighted these benefits. He noted that the technology not only enhances crop production but also contributes to improved urban sanitation and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by diverting organic waste from landfills.
The environmental benefits of BSF farming are particularly noteworthy. Organic waste management is a significant challenge in many urban areas, leading to sanitation issues and environmental degradation. By converting this waste into valuable agricultural inputs, BSF farming addresses these challenges head-on. Additionally, by reducing the need for imported feed, the technology can contribute to lowering Ghana’s carbon footprint.
The potential for job creation, particularly for Ghanaian youth, is another significant implication of this technology. Mr. Daniel Fahene Acquaye, CEO of Agri-Impact, acknowledged this potential and expressed interest in exploring partnership opportunities with IITA. This could lead to the development of new industries and employment opportunities, further boosting Ghana’s economy.
Furthermore, the integration of BSF farming into existing agricultural programs could enhance their effectiveness. Mr. Ali Kwaku Ababio, Director of Prisons in charge of Agriculture, expressed his intention to incorporate BSF farming into prison rehabilitation and agriculture programs. This aligns with ongoing poultry and aquaculture production efforts and could provide new skills and opportunities for inmates, contributing to their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad), the BBEST project is being implemented in Ghana, Mali, Niger, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. As awareness and adoption of BSF farming grow, it stands to significantly benefit Ghana’s agricultural sector, offering a sustainable and cost-effective solution to some of the sector’s most pressing challenges.