The International Tropical Agriculture Institute (IITA) participated in the Made in DRC Expo and the Kinshasa Economic Forum at the Pullman Hotel in Kinshasa to promote these different technologies, in particular the Black Soldier Fly technology and its various products, from October 22 to 24, 2025.
During the three-day exhibition, visitors to the IITA booths had the privilege of discovering the technology of the Black Soldier Fly, a fly that differs from other ordinary flies. It produces larvae, which are a source of protein used in feed for pigs, chickens, and fish, and organic fertilizer (digestate) used in vegetable production.
They were made aware of the reasons behind this technology. Firstly, there is a scarcity of food to feed our animals, given that the fishmeal and soybean meal used to feed them are also consumed by humans. Secondly, it contributes to the sanitation of our environment. Hence the importance of practicing black soldier fly farming to begin feeding our animals.
During the exhibition of this technology we also reminded visitors that they can not only raise black soldier flies to feed their animals but also those who do not have animals can do so to market them to farmers in need of food, an opportunity to create a job.
Ms. RUKIYA RAMAZANI Zady, Secretary General at the Ministry of Entrepreneurship, Small and Medium Enterprises, who represented her supervisory authority, also appreciated and encouraged this black soldier fly technology.
The project team also answered questions from visitors. Regarding questions about the consumption of black soldier fly larvae, the team stated that the larvae are only for animals. They also indicated that black soldier flies are found throughout nature, especially in areas with strong-smelling waste.
It doesn’t sting or transmit pathogens. This exhibition was a revelation for many visitors. Mr. Aristotle, a young student from the Pedagogical University of Kinshasa, stated, “Frankly, it was the very first time I’d ever heard of a black soldier fly. He said, ‘When I arrived at your stand, I thought I was going to see bees.’ It’s only after your explanation that I’ve learned about it and understood its importance.”
Having acquired knowledge about the technology of the black soldier fly and its breeding, are you ready to start this activity and what is your impression?
Ms. Séverine Lukombo, I am fully prepared to engage in this activity, especially since I am experiencing significant difficulties feeding my animals. If you facilitate this training, I would be available to attend personally, along with my five children who are at home. The initial impression is very positive because I was unaware that there was a fly called the “Black Soldier Fly” that produces animal feed.
Mr Christian MUMBAVU, breeder, “I am very flattered by this black soldier fly technology” and I agree to start this breeding especially since I am having a lot of difficulty feeding my pigs.
Are you ready to share your knowledge of this black soldier fly technology? Yes, says Mr. Pascal, a farmer, and requests that the BBEST project organize a series of training sessions to enable many people to master this technology, which provides a solution for livestock farmers and agricultural producers.
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