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.
At the Njala University (NUSL) Living Lab, research is ongoing into the use of black soldier fly (BSF) larvae as a sustainable component in fish feed. The study is being carried out by one MSc student and one Higher Diploma (HD) student, contributing to local capacity building in sustainable aquaculture practices.
The University for Development Studies (UDS) Living Lab marked another successful harvest of Amaranthus dubius, this time in the company of young visitors. Children were welcomed to observe the activities and learn about the work of the Living Lab.
Their presence added a lively energy to the day, offering a glimpse into how sustainable food practices can inspire the next generation.
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.
The Living Lab at Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku (USTM) was awarded the prize for best agricultural innovation during the Haut-Ogooué Agricultural Entrepreneurship Awards. Haut-Ogooué is the province where Franceville, home to the USTM Living Lab, is located.
During the award ceremony, team’s growing recognition for advancing sustainable agri-food solutions through the INCiTiS-FOOD project was highlighted.
At the Bamenda University of Science and Technology (BUST) Living Lab, Pisum sativum (pea plant) is currently being tested. The plants have begun fruiting, marking a positive step in evaluating their performance under local conditions.
This trial is part of the wider effort within the INCiTiS-FOOD project to explore diverse crops suited for sustainable, integrated food production.
The University for Development Studies (UDS) Living Lab carried out a harvest today, marking another milestone. The harvesters were very excited as they received the fresh produce as a gift, a gesture that added excitement and community spirit to the day’s activities.
Moments like these reflect the practical benefits and local engagement made possible through the INCiTiS-FOOD project.
At Njala University (NUSL), the Living Lab is recording steady progress across multiple aspects of its aquaponics research. The peri-urban aquaponics system is proving to be feasible, and sustainable. The nutrient film (NFT) is showing promising results, with more updates expected soon.
Equally impressive is the performance of the growbed setup, referred to by the team as “growbed magic,” for its consistent and healthy plant growth. Alongside these developments, feed research is currently underway to optimise nutrition for fish in the system. Haematological analysis is also being conducted on experimental fish to support overall system health monitoring.
We are closely following the NUSL team for all the updates on all their innovative approaches.
At the University for Development Studies (UDS) Living Lab, experiments with amaranthus and mint are progressing well across different aquaponic setups. The plants are currently growing in nutrient film technique (NFT), media bed, and deep water culture (DWC) systems.
These trials aim to assess performance across multiple growing methods within the standard aquaponics unit, contributing to local knowledge on sustainable crop production in integrated systems.
At the Njala University Living Lab, a straightforward adjustment to the aquaculture system is making a notable difference. Continuous aeration has been introduced, and its effects are clearly visible.
This simple yet effective approach prevents flocculation, allowing solid waste to settle directly to the bottom and move efficiently into the digester. By enhancing water clarity and system flow, the innovation supports a cleaner, more productive aquaponic environment.
Sometimes, the most effective solutions are the simplest.
