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
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.
Practical Learning for Master’s Student at Kenyatta University
A master’s student from Kenyatta University is preparing to settle and feed the first colony of black soldier flies (BSF) obtained from the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology(ICIPE) in Kenya. The initiative marks an important step towards advancing sustainable waste management practices within the academic community. Ongoing data collection highlights the thorough examination of BSF cultivation dynamics and its relevance to waste reduction strategies. Such efforts present the commitment of students towards innovative solutions for environmental sustainability.
KU Living Lab Team
Collaboration is very important for success! The KU Living Lab team is working closely with three students. The goal is to share knowledge, learn together and build a more sustainable agriculture together.
27-07-2023 at Ku Living Lab
