The Waste4Meal initiative recently launched its ground-breaking Waste4Meal project, with its convener/executive officer, Rosemary Omoyeni, stating they have been negotiating a difficult environment.
This project aims to meet the urgent demand for alternative protein sources in Nigeria’s agriculture sector by utilising the advantages of black soldier fly (BSF) larvae as a sustainable source of protein for animal feed.
The initiative is a joint effort of the he Agricultural Social Entrepreneurship Foundation (ASEF) and the Grace Foundation, a division of The Grace Tribe Church, who just graduated 31 students
“This ambitious regenerative agriculture project harnesses the remarkable capabilities of the BSF to transform organic waste into valuable resources,” she explained,
Omoyeni stated that over 70 per cent of the Nigerian population is involved in agriculture, adding that the project seeks to empower women who represent nearly 60 per cent of Africa’s agricultural workforce.
The Waste4Meal project promises to enhance food security and alleviate the reliance on conventional protein sources such as fishmeal and soybean meal. In addition to providing a rich and sustainable protein alternative, BSF larvae produce frass, an organic fertiliser that rejuvenates degraded soils and boosts crop yields naturally. The project reflects a significant step towards sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation in Nigeria.
As the foundation celebrates the progress made over the last three months, it acknowledges the challenges faced, reinforcing its commitment to fostering economic empowerment and sustainable development in the agricultural sector.
Lead Facilitator and President of ASEF, Azeez Saheed, said the project, which started small, is a new horizon for Nigeria’s agriculture, noting that about 16 firms came together to work on it.
According to him, “Waste4Meal is a completely decentralised agricultural project. There is a company for security, access to intellectual training, finance, etc. The lead organisation is ASEF International, an NGO from the Netherlands that is championing this multi-dimensional project globally. I am passionate about this project because Nigeria is experiencing agricultural innovation, and we are rebuilding things.
The graduation ceremony, held Sunday, April 13th, 2025, marked a significant milestone in the Waste4Meal initiative, which aims to address food waste while promoting sustainability and economic empowerment.
Participants underwent rigorous training, learning how to convert organic waste into protein-rich animal feed and organic fertilisers, effectively turning what was once considered trash into gold.
“This programme not only empowers individuals with essential skills but also contributes to a more sustainable future,” said the president of the Foundation. “We are thrilled to see these graduates equipped to make a real impact in the nation with the knowledge acquired.”
He explained that “the black soldier fly consumes food waste in minutes. They meet and produce lava, which feeds fish, livestock and equally produce oil,” adding that humans can consume black soldier fly when dried. “The protein is very high,” he said.
The organisers said, “Among the 31 who completed the programme, two standout participants will advance to the Netherlands in August 2025 for further international training, connecting Nigeria’s local innovation with global best practices. The ripple effect is already clear. ASEF’s vision is to scale this model with a bold goal of training 100,000 African youths, including 12,000 in Ghana and more in Kenya and South Africa. Partners like New Generation Nutrition (NGN), Gonastocks, Fidas Africa, and Guardian Angel Services support this vision with technical and financial support.
“This initiative aligns with a growing global emphasis on sustainable practices and reducing food waste, offering a replicable model for other communities seeking to embrace regenerative agriculture. Graduates will now have the opportunity to implement their newfound knowledge, fostering local entrepreneurship and improving food security.”
The organisers noted that “as the world grapples with increasing waste and food production challenges, the Waste4Meal initiative is a beacon of hope, illustrating how innovation and collective efforts can lead to transformative change. The Grace Foundation and ASEF are committed to expanding this programme, aiming to inspire more individuals to join the movement towards a greener and more sustainable future.
“Two outstanding graduates were awarded all-expense paid trip to the Netherlands for further studies by August 2025.”
Source: The Sun
Credit Image: FreePix
