African Union on regulatory frameworks and regional trade of insects

Insect consumption has a rich cultural heritage in Africa, deeply embedded in tradition and history. Despite this, there has been a shift in recent times where younger generations have shied away from consuming insects. To address this challenge, the African Union (AU) aims to bridge the gap by documenting insect consumption and linking it with cultural significance. With over 1.4 billion species of insects globally, approximately 400 edible species are identified in Africa alone. From termites to grasshoppers, mealworms, and palm weevils, insect consumption spans across the continent. However, there is a lack of comprehensive studies exploring the connection between people and insect consumption, a vital aspect that needs attention. The AU's approach involves cataloging, setting rules, and guidelines for insect production to ensure public health safety and prevent cases of illnesses or allergies. Standardizing measurements, quality, and trade processes are essential to facilitate inter-country trade. Some countries like Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda have taken strides in this direction, laying the foundation for a structured insect farming industry. Moreover, as Africa hosts the Africa Food Systems Summit in Kigali, the timing couldn't be more appropriate to discuss the potential of insect farming. Saliou Niassy, Coordinator of the African Union Inter-African Phytosanitary Council, highlights the immense opportunity insect farming holds for the continent's economic growth and food security. One significant challenge is attracting foreign direct investment into the emerging sector of insect farming. While insects have long been part of African culture and harvested from the wild, research and modern farming techniques can enhance mass production, creating a myriad of employment opportunities and advancing food security. Niassy emphasizes that Africa's favorable climate, abundant labor, and low-input requirements make it an ideal destination for investors seeking to capitalize on the insect farming industry. Addressing the regulatory framework is crucial in the sustainable development of the insect farming sector. With an extensive variety of edible insects available, establishing safety standards and regulations becomes imperative to protect consumers and ensure the quality of insect products. Niassy elucidates the necessity of harmonizing regulatory practices across ministries like Health, Environment, Agriculture, and Trade to safeguard consumer rights and maintain product quality. Existing regulations, influenced by global standards like the Codex Alimentarius, need reevaluation to accommodate the unique cultural context of insect consumption in Africa. Efforts led by organizations like the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) and the African Standards Organization (ARSO) are instrumental in developing standardized guidelines for insect farming. These guidelines encompass aspects like production methods, safety protocols, and trade practices, ensuring a uniform framework for insect farming across the continent. As the momentum for insect farming gains traction, more African countries are joining the movement to establish regulatory frameworks that support safe trade, generate income, and foster employment. The collaborative efforts between the AU, research institutions, and standardization bodies are paving the way for a thriving insect farming industry in Africa, signaling a transformative shift towards sustainable food production and economic prosperity.