GETEC 2025

UYI Develops Insect-Based Fish Feed Using Fly Larvae

At the 2025 edition of the Cameroon Student’s Ingenuity and Talent Fair (GETEC), the University of Yaounde I stood out with innovations of high economic, social, and environmental potential. One of the main attractions was the local production of feed for fish and poultry, developed by students from the Faculty of Science and the IUT-Wood of Mbalmayo.

In response to the high cost of fishmeal and soybean—two essential yet expensive ingredients in fish and poultry farming—these young researchers found a sustainable alternative: black soldier fly larvae meal. With a machine locally designed, the larvae are dried and transformed into a protein-rich feed. This innovation offers a local, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution for two key sectors of Cameroon’s agriculture.

But their ingenuity doesn’t stop there. The residues from the larvae processing are recovered and used as compost, enriching the soil. This dual-purpose approach animal nutrition and organic fertilization perfectly illustrates the circular economy model implemented by these students. In a context of rising agricultural input costs, their initiative paves the way for more accessible and sustainable farming.

Another major highlight was the local manufacture of wooden furniture. Students from IUT-Wood showcased furniture (industrial frames, doors, buildings, etc.) made from Cameroonian wood, processed entirely through a local value chain. The goal is to promote national timber species and reduce the massive importation of doors, furniture, and other wood products. With a catalog of over 300 species, this sector provides job opportunities for many young people while boosting the local economy. It is well-suited for both temporary constructions and permanent installations, helping to cut costs and reduce implementation time.

Through these initiatives, the students of Yaounde I demonstrate that they are ready to take on the challenges of development.

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