INNOECOFOOD Partners Convene for Month 18 Coordination Meeting at Kisumu, Kenya

At the 18-month milestone of the INNOECOFOOD project, partners convened in a hybrid meeting in Kisumu, Kenya, from July 1st-3rd, 2025, to assess progress made and recalibrate strides toward eco-innovative aquaculture across Africa. Led by CIIMAR, the meeting was a success where the consortium had the opportunity to review tasks, and adjust commitments to meet targeted outcomes.

Key innovations include sustainable fish feeds and value-added superfoods. ECOHUBs in Kenya, Ghana, Tanzania, and Egypt, equipped with recirculating aquaculture systems, insect rearing, and dryers, are nearing completion. Project teams provided updates on construction, contingency plans, and harmonized production protocols that will ensure these ECOHUBs become beacons of nutritious, high-impact in the food systems.

Research has advanced Spirulina strains from local lakes through sampling and molecular characterization, with lab optimizations progressing towards mass production for fish feeds and human nutrition. Insect production facilities for black soldier flies and crickets are being designed in Kenya, targeting an October 2025 launch. Optimized fish feeds, incorporating spirulina and insects, are scheduled for trials in Uganda, Namibia, Ghana, and Tanzania. Additionally, over 20 new products derived from fish waste, such as enzymatic hydrolysates, have been developed, with partners now focusing on the two most market-ready innovations each, emphasizing both nutritional value and consumer appeal.

Lastly, the INNOECOFOOD project exemplifies a holistic vision, focusing on quality and outreach. Key initiatives include: finalizing a product validation manual, securing Aquaculture Stewardship Council and Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points certifications via targeted training, and conducting Life Cycle Assessments for tilapia in Kenya’s ECOHUB. We are also committed to sharing with you updates on
progress via our communication channels, while we promote responsible innovation.

During the event, partners visited the Kenya ECOHUB to witness construction status and Peche Foods where they tested the innovative healthy snacks that are blended insect powder. This initiative aims to transform African agroecology and deliver healthier foods, empowered communities, and a reduced environmental footprint as we move forward into the 2nd semester of 2025.