Insect larvae farming fed on organic waste
Starting costs about 3,310,000 NGN in Nigeria and 843,000 KES in Kenya. After 12 months, this business can bring in about 452,000 NGN net per month in Nigeria and 58,100 KES in Kenya. The starting money comes back in about 16 months, with 40 hours of work per week.
Mundyo estimates, data as of 2026-11-02.
See the numbers for my countryFree, no account, in the currency of 247 countries.
The numbers
| Country | To start | Net per month (month 12) |
|---|---|---|
| Nigeria | 3,310,000 NGN | 452,000 NGN |
| Kenya | 843,000 KES | 58,100 KES |
| India | 413,000 INR | 42,400 INR |
| Philippines | 405,000 PHP | 35,500 PHP |
| South Africa | 132,000 ZAR | 11,200 ZAR |
Amounts adjusted to each country's price and income levels.
The problem
Poultry and fish feed is expensive, especially its protein, while markets and food industries throw away tonnes of organic waste.
The solution
Raise black soldier fly larvae on collected plant waste, then sell fresh or dried larvae as protein and the residue as fertiliser.
Your customers
Small and medium poultry, fish and pig farmers, local feed mills, and vegetable growers for the fertiliser.
How you make money
Dried larvae sold by the kilo, roughly €1.5 to €3 per kg depending on the market, plus fertiliser by the bag.
Competition
Imported fishmeal and oilseed cakes, a few industrial insect farms, farmers producing their own larvae.
Who has an edge
A rigorous farmer or technician comfortable with waste and odours, who secures a steady free waste stream and nearby buyers.
The risks
Irregular waste supply, animal feed regulations, delicate biological control, and low prices from conventional competitors.
The first 3 steps
- Check local rules on insects in animal feed
- Negotiate a regular waste stream with a market or factory
- Set up a small pilot unit and measure yields
How the numbers are calculated
Example in a high-income eurozone country, at month 12: revenue €4,800 − costs €3,600 = €1,200 net per month. Revenue: 1,500 kg of larvae × €2 + 360 bags of fertilizer × €5. Costs: premises rent, energy, drying, bags, transport, social contributions. For other countries, Mundyo adjusts the starting budget to the price level (World Bank) and the income to prices and customers' purchasing power, then converts at the day's exchange rate.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start: Insect farming?
About 3,310,000 NGN (Nigeria), 843,000 KES (Kenya), 413,000 INR (India), depending on the country. Mundyo calculates the amount for 247 countries.
How much can you earn per month?
After 12 months, about 452,000 NGN (Nigeria), 58,100 KES (Kenya), 42,400 INR (India) net per month, after costs.
How long until I get my starting money back?
About 16 months, with 40 hours of work per week.
What are the risks?
Irregular waste supply, animal feed regulations, delicate biological control, and low prices from conventional competitors.
Where do I start?
1. Check local rules on insects in animal feed 2. Negotiate a regular waste stream with a market or factory 3. Set up a small pilot unit and measure yields
Similar ideas
- Agricultural drone spraying and crop mappingFarm drone services
- Microgreens and fresh herbs for restaurantsMicrogreens for restaurants
- Remote agronomy advice by mobile subscriptionFarm advice by phone
- Farm produce box subscription with local deliveryFarm produce boxes
Register your business in your country
Belgium · Brazil · Cameroon · Colombia · France · Ivory Coast · Mexico · Morocco · Peru · Portugal · Senegal · Spain