By Albert Oppong-Ansah, GNA Accra, June 25, GNA
In the heart of Accra, a quiet revolution is taking place, one that promises to transform Ghana’s agricultural landscape and redefine waste management. The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) is at the forefront of this change, championing an innovative technology that uses the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) to convert organic waste into high-value products. This initiative, known as the Black Soldier Fly for Bio-Circular Economy and Environmental Sustainability (BBEST) project, is gaining traction, offering sustainable solutions for poultry, aquaculture, and vegetable production.
At the maiden Channel One Agrifair, the BBEST project team showcased the BSF life cycle, engaging visitors with insights into the technology’s process and benefits. The star of the show 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. Amuetey Nagetey, Interim Production Manager of the BSF Production Unit, highlighted the innovation’s potential, describing it as a moderate-cost, healthier protein source for animal feed and a tool for environmental sustainability.
The technology works by converting fruit, vegetable, kitchen, and slaughterhouse waste into high-protein larvae, providing a sustainable and locally available alternative to expensive imported fishmeal and soybean meal. This not only reduces the cost of animal feed but also addresses the issue of waste management. The nutrient-rich residue, known as frass, improves soil fertility and boosts vegetable yields, contributing to improved urban sanitation and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by diverting organic waste from landfills.
The implications of this technology are far-reaching. For instance, Mr. Daniel Fahene Acquaye, CEO of Agri-Impact, acknowledged the job creation potential, particularly for Ghanaian youth, and expressed interest in exploring partnership opportunities with IITA. Meanwhile, Mr. Ali Kwaku Ababio, Director of Prisons in charge of Agriculture, saw the potential in incorporating BSF farming into prison rehabilitation and agriculture programs, aligning it with their ongoing poultry and aquaculture production efforts.
The BBEST project, funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad), 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. It promises to reduce dependence on imported feed, improve profitability for poultry farmers, manage organic waste more effectively, and advance the country’s commitment to climate-smart agriculture. This innovative technology is not just a step forward for Ghana’s agricultural sector but a leap towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.