Availability and Potential of Insects for Use as Animal Feed in Rwanda

This study assessed the availability and nutritional composition of insects in Rwanda to determine their potential as alternative animal feed. Eleven insect species from seven orders were analyzed across four provinces. The most common species with feed potential were Hermetia illucens (84.4%), Anomala spp (63.4%), Odontotermes spp (53.5%), Spodoptera frugiperda (51.3%), and Zonocerus variegatus (50.0%). Orthoptera, Lepidoptera, Dictyoptera, and Diptera showed the highest crude protein content (44.4–54.3%), with six species exceeding 50% CP. Musca domestica had the highest protein, fiber, and potassium, while H. illucens had the highest calcium and phosphorus. Nutrient composition varied widely among species, indicating diverse feed value. Overall, insects present a nutrient-rich, sustainable alternative to costly conventional protein sources such as fishmeal and soybean meal, supporting improved animal nutrition in Rwanda.