Aquaculture plays a pivotal role in addressing the growing global demand for fish, with its long-term sustainability hinging on the availability of high-quality feed sources. This study explores the potential of insect-based feed as an alternative in Kenyan aquaculture, motivated by concerns surrounding environmental sustainability, resource efficiency, and food security. Primary data were collected from 933 fish farmers across nine counties in Kenya, assessing their current feeding practices, attitudes towards insect-based feed, and willingness to pay for this innovative feed source.
The results revealed that most farmers exhibited positive attitudes towards the adoption of insect-based feed, with a strong willingness to pay for this alternative, highlighting a promising market potential in Kenya’s aquaculture sector. Social factors, such as veterinary approval, recommendations from extension officers, peer influence, and media promotion, were identified as key drivers in shaping these positive attitudes and perceptions.
The findings indicate a conducive environment for promoting insect-based feed as a sustainable and resource-efficient option in aquafeed formulations. However, the successful integration of insect-based feed will require overcoming several challenges, including knowledge gaps, concerns about feed costs, and the issues faced by feed millers, such as limited ingredient supply, high prices, and quality control problems, notably aflatoxin contamination. Addressing these challenges will be critical to ensuring widespread adoption and enhancing the sustainability of Kenya’s aquaculture sector.