Black Soldier Fly Larvae – Project Enhancement for Karambi Group
The Karambi Group for People with Disabilities, based in Kasese, Uganda, has proven itself to be a motivated and impactful partner of The Giving Exchange (TGE) since our first project together in 2022. Karambi Group, a non-profit organization, aims to empower people with disabilities and their families, supporting over 270 children and 350 adults. Together, we've implemented on one of our most unique projects, using Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) to produce affordable and nutritious animal feed.
In the face of skyrocketing animal feed prices in East Africa, driven by inflation, the War in Ukraine, and severe drought, Karambi Group's innovative approach with Black Soldier Flies has become a game-changer. Found in animal waste, these flies produce larvae that thrive on organic decomposable matter, providing nutrient-rich feed that strengthens animal immunity.
In the first year, 41 animals in surrounding farms were sustained through the feed produced, generating over $4,000 in profit. To amplify this impact, TGE pledged a second round of funding in 2023, allowing Karambi Group to expand their trainings and production. This expansion sustains over 5000 animals, serves 157 farmers, and generates approximately $800/month in income. Moreover, it has empowered 90 more community members through training in the first year.
In the first Quarter of 2023, a project evaluation revealed remarkable achievements, with a 527% increase in BSFL production (215kg/quarter to an impressive 1,350 kg) and a 1,300% increase in income ($123.12/quarter to $1,782.00). This economic success enables community members to start their production, supported by capital from the group, fostering self-sufficiency and independence. Importantly, the data indicates that selling animals and animal products is more profitable than selling the larvae itself. Karambi Group trainees have learned that producing their own animal feeds significantly cuts production costs, leading to more profits.
With enhanced project funding in 2023, 15 lavariums, chicken coops, and a fish pond have been created, sustaining the community. Twenty poultry farmers have been trained, and five individuals have received support to establish larvae production at their homes.
This project exemplifies the transformative impact of sustainable practices, benefiting both the environment and the community it serves. Please consider donating today.
