Black Soldier Fly Innovation Hub

The Black Soldier Fly Innovation Hub project focuses on the establishment of a Local Innovation Hub in Gulu (Uganda) dedicated to the rearing and valorisation of the Black Soldier Fly (BSF). The objective is to strengthen food security and the circular economy through organic waste valorisation, provide affordable protein sources for animal feed, and create new entrepreneurial opportunities for local farmers and youth. 

The consortium consists of TRIAS, Thomas More, and Gulu University. 

The key objectives are: 

• to train more than 100 local entrepreneurs and farmers in BSF farming, 

• to further develop the pilot production facility at Gulu University, 

• to carry out economic feasibility studies, 

• and to support the development of 5–10 new BSF businesses. 

TRIAS will lead the project, focusing on business development and market access. Thomas More will develop training materials, feasibility assessments, and learning modules. Gulu University and TRIAS will deliver the training, ensuring hands-on learning and business coaching. Gulu University will also host the pilot BSF facility, focusing on research and environmental monitoring. 

The expected outcomes include a 60% waste conversion rate, lower feed costs (30–40% savings for farmers), and the creation of new decent jobs in the circular economy, particularly for marginalised and vulnerable groups, including landless youth, the elderly, and women, ensuring gender equality. 

By promoting insect farming as a sustainable food system, the project will help alleviate poverty , strengthen food security, and reduce environmental impact, contributing to climate change mitigation, and serving as a replicable model for other regions in Africa.