The United Nations projects that the world’s population will increase by two billion people in the next 38 years. Thirty-nine of Africa’s fifty-five countries have the world’s highest fertility rates and are predicted to be the main contributors to the upcoming population boom. Yet many of these countries are plagued by micronutrient deficiencies which predominately affect pregnant women and children. In particular, iron and protein deficiencies contribute to high rates of maternal and infant mortality, and cause permanent developmental damage to small children's bodies and brains. This harsh environment requires an efficient use of the scarce resources available.

Bumu is a cricket farming system that empowers mothers to provide themselves and their children with much-needed iron and protein. Bumu farms provide easily-absorbed nutrients, in the form of crickets, to children and pregnant women who would otherwise suffer from iron and protein starved diets. Not only are crickets high in easily-absorbed iron and protein, but they also require far less water (and provide more nutrients!) than traditional livestock like cattle or chickens. Bumu cricket farms can be produced using all local materials--including the crickets. 

Specifically, we are working with the Duruma tribe in Mnyenzeni, which has no social stigma against the consumption of crickets. We will champion the cause of infant and maternal health by demonstrating the benefits of cricket farms to women at a local women's health clinic. We will also work with women leaders in the community to build and start up cricket farms. Our primary local partner is a local NGO, Koins for Kenya, which helped to establish the women's center. Our primary advisor is Charlie MacCormack, president and CEO of Save the Children.