Uganda’s wild fish stocks have declined by 30–40% over the past decade due to overfishing, pollution, and climate stress. To meet rising demand, the government targets one million metric tons of farmed fish annually by 2030. However, adoption remains low, with only 8.3% of surveyed individuals in Buikwe District (regarded as an aquaculture hotspot) engaged in fish farming. High feed costs, accounting for up to 70% of production expenses, remain a key barrier for small-scale farmers.
his study explored alternative protein sources for affordable, sustainable aquaculture along Lake Victoria. A survey of 120 residents in Buikwe District found fishing (42.5%) and crop farming (43.3%) to be dominant, with informal fisheries-linked activities also common but increasingly vulnerable due to declining catches. Despite their potential, no respondents practiced Black Soldier Fly (BSF), spirulina, or cricket farming. Yet, BSF larvae can yield 500 kg per ton of organic waste and cut feed costs by up to 40%, with a one-hectare farm producing five tons monthly—enough for 10–15 tons of fish. Spirulina (20 g/L/day) and crickets, with high feed efficiency, offer equally scalable, protein-rich alternatives. Accordingly, integrating insect and algae farming into extension services, establishing community demonstration farms, and linking value chains to finance and nutrition programs (especially for women and youth) could accelerate adoption. Aligning training, policy, and investment is crucial to achieving national aquaculture goals while building resilient, inclusive rural economies.