By Kurian Musa
Egerton University, Njoro — In a groundbreaking innovation that combines sustainability, agribusiness, and food security, Phillip Msagha Nyange, a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science student at Egerton University, has emerged the national winner in the insect-rearing category during the Youth in Agriculture Awards (YIAA) held at Kakamega Golf Hotel.
Nyange’s project, titled “Turning Waste into Wealth by Rearing Housefly Maggots,” has captured national attention for its practical approach to solving food insecurity and environmental degradation using a low-cost, scalable insect protein system.
The innovation stood out among other regional entries during the YIAA Regionals hosted at Egerton University Main Campus, where Nyange qualified for the national stage.
“This is not just a project; it’s a movement toward building resilient food systems,” said Nyange during a recent interview.
He went on: “We are living in an era where we can no longer rely solely on conventional crop farming. Climate change, land degradation, and unpredictable weather patterns are pushing us to innovate.”
"This is great innovation and we are glad to have hosted the regional competition. Mr Nyange is our outstanding student innovator," said Dr. Julius Mafura a seasoned academic and researcher at Egerton University, where he serves as a lecturer in the Faculty of Education and Community Studies. His expertise lies in agricultural education, rural development, and curriculum studies, with a focus on improving education systems and livelihoods in rural communities.
Dr. Mafura is known for enhancing sustainable agricultural practices and youth empowerment through education has helped shape Mr Nyange's innovation. He has also participated in various national and regional forums addressing education policy and rural transformation.
Nyange's innovation revolves around converting decomposing organic waste into valuable animal feed and organic fertilizer by rearing housefly larvae. The maggots, rich in protein, are dried and processed into affordable feed for poultry, pigs, and fish.
Meanwhile, the waste residue is transformed into compost, contributing to soil health and sustainable farming practices.
According to Nyange, the inspiration behind the project came from pressing global concerns. With the world’s population expected to reach 10 billion by 2050, sustainable food systems are more critical than ever.
“Animal production has unique strengths. Unlike crop farming, it can adapt to urban spaces and harsh climates through intensive systems. But nutrition, especially protein, remains the most costly component. That’s where insects offer a viable solution,” he noted.
The innovation was evaluated on its creativity, feasibility, environmental impact, and cost-efficiency. Judges were particularly impressed by Nyange’s ability to prototype a working rearing unit, demonstrate successful incubation, and deliver a real-world application of sustainable livestock nutrition.
At the national event in Kakamega, Nyange received a project award voucher worth KES 50,000, a commemorative plaque, and formal recognition from the organizers, including Madam Jacklin Kakayi Masicha, a key dignitary in the agricultural innovation space. His success is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the potential of youth-led agricultural transformation in Kenya.
Beyond innovation, Nyange is now seeking to scale his project and deepen his contribution to the livestock sector. In a formal message to livestock industry stakeholders, including Mr. Kurian Musa, a Communications Officer at Egerton University, he expressed his willingness to engage in collaborative work, employment, or apprenticeship opportunities.
“I believe my hands-on experience, innovative thinking, and strong technical background make me an asset in this sector,” he said.
“My dream is to bridge the gap between theory and practice in animal production and offer real solutions that are affordable, scalable, and environmentally responsible.”
Nyange’s proposal reflects a growing trend among Kenyan youth; leveraging science and indigenous knowledge to build climate-resilient agribusiness models.
His call for mentorship and collaboration is also a reminder that innovations thrive not only through talent but through networks, guidance, and institutional support.
As the agricultural sector continues to seek sustainable solutions to feed the future, projects like Nyange’s offer a beacon of possibility, demonstrating how small-scale initiatives can evolve into impactful enterprises.
For inquiries, collaborations, or further information, Phillip Msagha Nyange can be reached at
