Why KU Living Lab?
The living lab is situated on the border of Nairobi County and Kiambu County, within the Nairobi Metropolitan zone. This area is characterized by middle-class residential estates and a significant population of low-income earners. Nearby towns host several local vegetable and food markets, which primarily rely on supplies from distant farming regions. The lab area’s agroecology is classified as mid-altitude, with a consistently warm climate throughout the year (averaging 25+°C). It experiences two rainy seasons, a long one from March to May and a short one from October to December. The availability and prices of food in this region tend to follow cyclical patterns influenced by supply and demand dynamics. The living lab will focus on implementing hydroponics and soil-less cultivation techniques within a high tunnel structure, commonly known as a greenhouse. Its primary purpose is to serve as a test and demonstration site for innovative climate-smart production technologies, such as sensors for monitoring moisture, temperature, relative humidity (RH), and pH levels.
Technology deployed in LL
Water circulation and waste composting for plant nutrition.
Crops
Start phase: Kales, Spinach, Tomato, Onions, herbs and spices. Possible to introduce strawberries. Longer term: may integrate aquaponic component (fish) and black soldier fly production.
Target stakeholders
Farmers (women in groups?) to produce for their own household and income generation. Youth (in groups) to produce for markets. Potential: can reach middle-class households as well with spaces to produce for own consumption.
Goal
Providing healthy food and improved nutritional diet to (peri-)urban population while conserving the environment as well as empowering vulnerable groups through innovative production
techniques and practices.
Latest News
Kenyatta University Introduces the “Grassroot Champions” Concept
Kenyatta University (KU) has established the concept of “grassroot champions,” where innovation actors take on the role of showcasing the adopted technologies within their networks and local neighborhoods. This approach supports peer-to-peer knowledge sharing and encourages wider adoption of innovative solutions at the community level.
INCiTiS-FOOD at the Global Congress on Rural and Agricultural Finance
The Kenyatta University and Egerton University teams represented the INCiTiS-FOOD project at the World Congress on Rural and Agricultural Finance, held in Mombasa, Kenya. The event brought together stakeholders from across the agricultural finance and rural development sectors to exchange knowledge and discuss approaches to strengthening food systems. Participation in the congress provided an opportunity to share perspectives from the INCiTiS-FOOD Living Labs and to engage with relevant stakeholders.
Training and Onboarding at Kenyatta University Living Lab
From 1–2 July 2025, the Kenyatta University (KU) Living Lab held a training session for potential onboarders. The programme introduced participants to the Living Lab model and INCiTiS-FOOD’s circular approaches in agri-food systems.
Following the training, two groups and one individual were successfully onboarded. The event concluded with a certificate ceremony to recognise participants’ engagement and readiness to join the KU Living Lab community.
Healthy Growth of Amaranthus at Kenyatta University Living Lab
At the Kenyatta University (KU) Living Lab, Amaranthus dubius planted on 15 May 2025 is showing healthy growth across both hydroponic and conventional soil-based media. So far, no major setbacks or infections have been reported.
This is an interesting trial that gives us a valuable insights into crop performance across different cultivation methods.
Larvae Growth at Kenyatta University Living Lab
The Kenyatta University Living Lab has recorded its largest black soldier fly larvae to date, marking a notable milestone. Recent photos and videos show impressive larvae growth, which can be attributed to a refined feeding strategy.
Kenyatta University Living Lab Introduces Black Soldier Fly Cage in Kiwanja
The Kenyatta University Living Lab is expanding its outreach by setting up a Black Soldier Fly (BSF) cage in a nearby informal settlement known as Kiwanja – a Swahili term for an open space. This initiative aims to introduce sustainable waste management and protein production solutions to the local community, expanding the reach of the INCiTiS-FOOD project further.
Onboarding training at Kenyatta University
During a recent training session at Kenyatta University Living Lab many participants successfully agreed to onboard. The training included practical sessions on preparing pumice and transplanting spinach. The onboarding day ended with a closing ceremony where each participant received a certificate and a visit from the Dean of the School of Pure and Applied Sciences.
Kenyatta University Success: Transforming Farming with Black Soldier Fly Innovation
Kenyatta University (KU) participants are transforming farming by integrating Black Soldier Fly larvae as the primary protein source, leading to the production of useful end products: organic fertiliser and custom-formulated feed. Each component is a viable business line, demonstrating the ecosystem’s potential for profitability and sustainability. Some participants, inspired by the success stories and equipped with valuable training, shared their impressions:
“The training really helped me understand how to integrate Black Soldier Fly larvae into farming. It’s transformed my approach.”
The Ongoing Training at Kenyatta University Living Lab
The ongoing training program at Kenyatta University Living Lab (KU LL) has brought together a diverse group of participants eager to expand their knowledge and skills in modern agricultural techniques. The participants are being guided by a team of expert trainers. Together, they explored hydroponic systems, a soil-less farming method that promises increased yield and sustainability. The trainers provided detailed demonstrations, ensuring that each participant could engage directly with the equipment and plants.
Partner Visit – Youth for Development team visited Kenyatta University Living Lab
Youth for Development team visited Kenyatta University Living Lab for the onboarding programme. This collaboration was marked by engaging discussions, inspiring workshops, and valuable networking opportunities. The enthusiasm and energy were particularly inspiring, adding a dynamic atmosphere to the event. This effort demonstrates a commitment to equipping future onboarders with essential skills and knowledge. As they move forward, teams aim to foster a supportive environment that nurtures leadership and promotes sustainable development within the community.
