Last week on Monday 17th and Tuesday 18th, November 2025, The AIFIP Association convened its first ever two-day stakeholders’ event themed “Unlocking Kenya’s Insect Economy: Insects for Sustainability, Job Creation & Wealth Creation.”
We were honored to host keynote speech from TANGA MBI from ICIPE – International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology on Day 1, who offered insightful perspectives on the future of the insect sector in Kenya and beyond. Additionally launching AIFIP which was transitioning from IPAK.
Before the keynote speech on Day 1, the Chair of the Association Michael Lwoyelo highlighted the milestones AIFIP has achieved so far, acknowledging the members and partners who were instrumental in the early stages and whose support helped shape the Association’s direction. The Vice Chair, Lydiah K. then presented the Association’s Strategic Plan, outlining the seven key pillars that will guide AIFIP’s work and long-term impact in Kenya’s insect sector.
We were also pleased to have Ibrahim Palaz from the Netherlands Food Partnership (NFP) join us virtually to share insights on NFP’s global food systems work and the importance of multi-stakeholder, country-led collaboration. He highlighted the role of partnerships such as IN-FEAST, where AIFIP is a key partner, in strengthening sector coordination and advancing sustainable insect-based feed solutions in East Africa.
A Panel discussion on Successful BSF Models, moderated by our Project Coordinator Laura Martinussen, highlighted how different enterprises have scaled their operations for profitability. The panelists shared key lessons learned, the challenges they encountered along the way, and the strategies they used to overcome them offering practical guidance for both emerging and established BSF businesses.
Breakout sessions on marketing strategies and implementation ideas for the Association’s strategic plan brought members together in interactive group discussions. Participants collaboratively explored the most effective ways to market the BSF sector, strengthen awareness, and drive coordinated action across the value chain.
Day 1 concluded with closing remarks from one of AIFIP’s members, @Samuel Mwangala who encouraged more people to be a part of the Association and take an active role in bringing its vision to life.
On day 2, Betty Kibaara from The Rockefeller Foundation, delivered her keynote in a uniquely captivating way, packaging her message through compelling stories. Betty highlighted the significant strides the Association has already made, noting that these are precisely the kind of long-term, transformative investments the Rockefeller Foundation supports, initiatives that continue to thrive beyond initial funding. Noting that, in the early stages of the Association’s development, she requested that the research team from ICIPE include private-sector actors in their consultations, a move that ultimately catalyzed the formation of the Association itself. Our strategic partner Marian Peters – NGN – New Generation Nutrition joined virtually and shared a presentation outlining the sector’s agenda, contributing significantly to the days discussion.
More panel discussions were held, including a topic on BSF Off-takers (moderated by Ayuka Fombong) exploring market demand, quality requirements, and how farmers can better position themselves to meet the needs of emerging and established off-takers in the sector. A panel discussion by Betty Kibaara on Sustainable Financing brought forward an insightful conversation on what insect farmers need to do to access financing, the current support available from financial institutions, and what these institutions plan to do differently to better serve the growing BSF sector. A final session, moderated by Shaphan Y. Chia; whose unique opening remarks urged the panelist to say what they meant and mean what they say, identified unique niche opportunities in the market. They shared valuable insights on carbon markets, pet food, chitin, and BSF oils, highlighting the diverse and rapidly expanding possibilities within the industry.
After closing remarks and a heartfelt vote of thanks from the chairperson, the event was concluded by a vibrant networking cocktail session that allowed for informal interactions and deeper connections.
With over 80 participants, the event brought together a dynamic mix of BSF farmers, researchers, feed processors, a representative from the Office of the First Lady, and strategic partners.
We look forward to convening again for an even more impactful and transformative gathering for Kenya’s growing insect economy.
