At just 24, Kenyan agripreneur Charity Kelsy proved that farming innovation can turn everyday waste into real income, becoming a millionaire through black soldier fly production.
Now 26 and pursuing a Master’s degree at Egerton University, Kelsy has built a thriving enterprise that converts organic waste into protein-rich livestock feed and organic fertiliser.
Her approach offers a practical solution to two major challenges facing farmers today—rising feed costs and poor waste management.
Speaking to Farmers Trend, Kelsy explained that her production process starts with collecting biodegradable materials such as discarded fruit peels, vegetable leftovers, and other organic scraps.
Instead of letting this waste rot or go to landfills, she uses it as feed for black soldier fly larvae, which are known for breeding fast and growing rapidly.
The rearing process begins by preparing the organic waste and placing it in controlled rearing units made from repurposed mosquito nets, where black soldier flies lay eggs.
According to her, a female black soldier can lay up to 1,500 eggs in her lifetime, depositing them in structures called eggies.
Once the eggs hatch, the larvae feed aggressively on the waste, growing into nutrient-rich larvae within a short period. After reaching maturity, the larvae are harvested, dried, and processed into high-protein feed that can be used for poultry, pigs, and fish.
What remains after the larvae consume the waste is a residue known as frass. Kelsy packages this frass and sells it as organic fertilizer, one of the most in-demand products in her business due to the increasing shift toward sustainable farming.
Her model stands out in an industry dominated by expensive commercial feeds and synthetic fertilisers, offering farmers a cheaper and environmentally friendly alternative while ensuring waste is put to productive use.
Kelsy’s financial breakthrough came early. At 24, she earned her first million from the enterprise.
She describes the milestone as a turning point that confirmed agribusiness can provide youth with financial independence.
“It not only gave me financial freedom as a young woman but also improved my family’s earnings,” she stated.
Her success has since opened more opportunities. She has taken part in black soldier fly farming consulting engagements abroad, including in China and Jordan, and trains farmers on the practice.
Kelsy also advises government agencies and development organisations on black soldier fly production and its potential to strengthen food systems.
However, her journey has not been without challenges. Limited land ownership initially made it difficult for her to secure credit and scale up operations.
To overcome this, she partnered with farmers in Nakuru and Kisumu counties, establishing demonstration farms that allow her to expand production while training other farmers interested in the venture.
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