ICIPE on a path to commercialize insect trade across Africa

Insect farming is a burgeoning industry in Africa, presenting a unique opportunity for innovation and growth. The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) has been at the forefront of this movement, working tirelessly for twelve years to commercialize insect farming and advocate for its incorporation into diets to improve nutrition across the continent. CNBC Africa's Tabitha Muthoni sat down with Dennis Beesigamukama, a Postdoctoral Fellow at ICIPE's INSEFF Programme, to delve into the center's initiatives and the future of insect trade in Africa. As the industry continues to expand, several challenges have emerged, including the scarcity of sorted organic waste. This unsorted waste, often contaminated with plastic, poses a hurdle for insect farmers striving to procure high-quality organic matter for their operations. Addressing this issue, ICIPE is promoting the segregation of waste at the source to ensure a clean supply for insect farming. Moreover, the center advocates for the proximity of insect farms to waste segregators and recycling companies, which can provide a reliable source of organic waste. In regions lacking regulatory frameworks for insect-based products, ICPE has taken the lead in setting standards in countries like Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. However, the absence of guidelines in other African nations hinders entrepreneurs from launching insect-based products, prompting ICPE to collaborate with the African Organization for Standardization to establish continent-wide standards for edible insects. Another significant challenge lies in the lack of awareness regarding the benefits of insects in African diets, particularly among the youth demographic apprehensive about consuming insects. To overcome this phobia, ICPE is incorporating insects into popular food items, such as bakery products, to mask their presence and highlight the associated health benefits. By creating insect-infused powders, protein bars, and other fortified products, ICPE aims to normalize insect consumption and dispel misconceptions. Diversifying product offerings and enhancing consumer education are crucial steps towards mainstreaming insect consumption in Africa. Safety concerns surrounding insect-based products are also a key consideration in the industry. To address this issue, ICPE conducts thorough research to identify insect species safe for human consumption and develops stringent post-harvest processing methods to ensure product quality and longevity. By utilizing eco-friendly harvesting techniques and implementing effective drying and packaging processes, ICPE safeguards the safety of consumers and maintains the nutritional integrity of insect-based foods. Despite the nascent nature of insect farming in Africa, attracting investment in the industry is essential for its sustainable growth. By establishing a robust business case and advocating for supportive policies and regulations, ICPE seeks to create a conducive environment for investors to engage in insect-based enterprises. The center's efforts to enhance awareness, establish standards, and prioritize safety are instrumental in propelling the insect farming industry forward and unlocking its vast potential across the African continent.