The University of California Davis (UC Davis) in Pathways to Hope Africa (PTHA) has partnered in an initiative to address the high cost of poultry feed, which has made it challenging for Ugandan farmers to sustain their poultry businesses. Through a joint research project in Kayunga, Uganda, the team explored the use of cassava peels and Black Soldier Fly (BSF) larvae as low-cost feed alternatives.
Team Members from University of California Davis & Pathways To Hope Africa visiting at FAO-Uganda Offices
By utilizing food waste such as cassava peels as a carbohydrate source and BSF larvae as a protein substitute, the research aimed to reduce the dependence on traditional, costly feed ingredients like maize and fish meal. The trial involved 100-layer hens, with promising results showing that this innovative feed not only lowers costs but also supports sustainable agriculture by reducing waste.
This research is also unlocking the potential of Uganda’s cassava value chain by turning what was once considered waste into economic opportunities for farmers. Beyond poultry feed, cassava offers valuable products like flour, starch, and bioethanol, which could drive rural economies and promote sustainable farming.
Some of the highlights from the research trip activties.
The success of this project, supported by partners like the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), FAO, and Makerere University, could revolutionize poultry farming, offering new business models for smallholder farmers and fostering economic growth and food security in Uganda.