Socioeconomic Factors Influencing the Consumption Of Lake Flies Within The Lake Victoria Region

The motivation of consuming edible insects, particularly lake flies, has the potential of improving the problem that results from the inability to sustainably meet the rising demand for animal-based protein as a result of increased population growth and urbanization. The aim of this study was to identify the selected socio-economic factors influencing consumption of lake flies and how they individually and collectively affect the consumption. A sample size of 385 respondents was derived using purposive and multistage sampling method. The target population is a representative of 8 ministries of livestock staff in each county and 385 households from the area. The study was conducted in Siaya, Homabay, and Kisumu counties along the Kenyan Lake Victoria shores. A survey research design using structured questionnaires and key informant interview guides were used. The qualitative data collected was analyzed using thematic analysis focusing on examining themes or patterns of meaning within data whereas quantitative data was analyzed using inferential and descriptive statistics with the aid of SPSS computer software. Socio-economic factors were found to significantly influence motivation to consume lake flies (r=0.708, M=2.76, P=0.00.Low income, large household and education are found to be the dominant socioeconomic factors influencing lake flies’ consumption. The study recommends intensified public awareness creation and public education on the health and nutritional benefits of edible insects to mankind. The study further recommends more attention should also be given to improved processing and preservation techniques by entomologists and nutritionists. Policy makers in National and County governments should provide resources for the promotion of acceptable lake fly socioeconomic factors.