News and Events
icipe and Sida renew cooperation to support bioscience research and innovation and foster development of a sustainable bioeconomy in Eastern Africa
Nairobi, Kenya, 31 March 2022: The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) have signed a new five-year cooperation agreement to implement phase III of the Bioresources Innovations Network for Eastern Africa Development Programme (BioInnovate Africa).
Rwanda achieves landmarks in the insect-based food and feed sector; with the support of icipe and partners
Against a grand vision of mainstreaming edible insects as a way of achieving food security and economic growth, Rwanda has marked two major milestones: the launch of national standards to guide the emergence of the edible insects sector; and the establishment of the country’s first commercial insect-based animal feed plant.
Launch of Emerging Insect Technology Hub (EIT-Hub) between Africa and Australia
Over the past decade, the narrative and reality surrounding insects has shifted dramatically. Far from the predominant image of crawly nuisances that ruin crops and cause diseases, insects are now increasingly becoming valued as green, more affordable and nutritious sources for people and as alternative proteins in animal feed.
Banana waste, potato’s gain
Destructive potato cyst nematodes meet their match in banana-fibre paper
With potato production in East Africa under increasing threat from the invasive and highly destructive potato cyst nematode (PCN) pest, an organic technology developed from banana plant waste material may well be the ultimate rescue. Known as ‘wrap and plant’, the solution involves enclosing potato seed before planting, in a thick absorbent paper that is made from the fibre of banana plants. This strategy provides a protective barrier for the plants against damage by PCN.
