At Rwanda AgriShow 2026 in Kigali, the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) is showcasing a wide range of insect science innovations that demonstrate the transformative role of beneficial insects in advancing sustainable agriculture, improving livelihoods, and strengthening food and nutritional security.
Visitors to the ICIPE exhibition are exploring innovative technologies designed to promote environmentally sustainable farming while creating new economic opportunities for farmers, youth, and agribusiness entrepreneurs. Among the featured innovations are Black Soldier Fly (BSF) technologies, including insect-based animal feed, organic fertilisers, and mineral blocks, alongside a variety of value-added bee products such as beeswax soap, body cream, hand wash, and shampoo.
ICIPE is also exhibiting its Integrated Pest Management (IPM) innovations, including Vegetable Integrated Push-Pull Technology (VIPPT), the use of natural enemies for biological pest control, fly traps, and biopesticides. These eco-friendly solutions help farmers manage crop pests sustainably, reduce dependence on synthetic pesticides, improve soil health, and increase agricultural productivity while protecting the environment.
Speaking during the exhibition, Wycliffe Obiero, Innovation and Scaling Assistant at ICIPE, said the organisation's insect science innovations demonstrate how beneficial insects can simultaneously improve agricultural productivity and stimulate enterprise development.
"Black Soldier Fly technologies and bee-based products provide sustainable agricultural solutions while creating new opportunities for income diversification, entrepreneurship, and employment across agricultural value chains," he said.
A key highlight at the ICIPE stand is the scaling of Vegetable Integrated Push-Pull Technology together with Black Soldier Fly farming through the Regenerative Agri-Food Systems Project. The initiative is being implemented in Rwanda by ICIPE in partnership with the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB).
The project integrates Vegetable Integrated Push-Pull Technology with Black Soldier Fly farming to promote circular and regenerative agri-food systems. Organic waste is converted into high-quality insect protein for livestock feed and nutrient-rich organic fertiliser, while Vegetable Integrated Push-Pull Technology provides ecological pest management for vegetable production. Together, these complementary innovations improve soil fertility, enhance biodiversity, increase crop and livestock productivity, and strengthen the resilience of farming systems against climate and environmental challenges.
Beyond promoting sustainable agricultural practices, the project is accelerating the adoption of regenerative farming systems by strengthening market linkages, supporting entrepreneurship, and improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers across Rwanda. Through its collaboration with RAB, ICIPE is connecting research, innovation, farmers, the private sector, and development partners to scale sustainable solutions that contribute to resilient and inclusive agri-food systems.
As Rwanda continues to promote climate-smart and sustainable agriculture, ICIPE's participation at Rwanda AgriShow 2026 demonstrates the significant contribution that insect science can make towards transforming food systems, enhancing environmental sustainability, and creating green jobs for rural communities.
Acknowledgement
The Regenerative Agri-Food Systems Project showcased at Rwanda AgriShow 2026 is implemented by ICIPE in partnership with the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) with the generous support of the IKEA Foundation , whose commitment to sustainable agriculture and resilient livelihoods is helping scale regenerative innovations that benefit smallholder farmers and strengthen Rwanda's agri-food systems.
Written By Nyandwi Alexis