The potential economic benefits of insect-based feed in Uganda

Black soldier fly farming is gaining traction globally as a strategy for recycling organic waste into high-quality proteins and fat feed fertilizer crop production. The support of governments in East Africa to integrate insect meal livestock has opened opportunities commercializing products. Understanding the potential value larvae (BSFLM) paramount inform policies practices promote insect-based This paper uses economic surplus method generate evidence on socioeconomic impact replacing conventional soybean fish protein sources with (IBF), BSFLM, Uganda. Results indicate that substitution IBF existing will net benefits USD 0.73 billion 20 years (0.037 per year). benefit-cost ratio estimated at 28:1, internal rate return 138%, indicating animal industry profitable investment. Even worst-case scenario, when replacement its are reduced by half, remains high (8:1). benefit can lift about 4.53 million people above poverty line country. It also create 1,252─563,302 new jobs annum, depending feeds (0.1%─45%). Uganda produce from 3,244 tons 1.5 IBF. Similarly, using same rates, country 695─312,678 NPK biowaste recycling. About 0.09-41 could be recycled, Our results justify investing chain contribute Uganda’s economic, social, environmental sustainability.