A €2.5 million waste-to-protein facility is planned in Accra under a Ghana–Denmark partnership, aiming to convert organic waste into insect protein for animal feed and organic fertiliser. The project highlights the growing role of waste-to-protein technology in sustainable agriculture and circular economy solutions.
A landmark private‑sector project agreement has been signed under the recently concluded Memorandum of Understanding between the Embassy of Denmark, Ghana’s Ministry of Food and Agriculture, and the 24 Hour Economy Secretariat on Agricultural and Agribusiness Cooperation. The signing took place at the Embassy of Denmark in Accra on 4 March.
The initiative brings together JSO Waste, a pioneer in Ghana’s waste management sector, with Danish partners Insectum ApS, a company developing modular insect protein infrastructure, and Michael Bundgaard Holding ApS, a third‑generation farming enterprise. Together, they will establish the first Insectum facility in Africa. Located in Accra, the plant will convert organic waste into protein ingredients for animal feed and organic fertiliser.
“At Insectum we are very excited about forming our first franchise partnership in Africa, and we are particularly proud of doing so with JSO and Michael Bundgaard Holding, companies with whom collaboration has come naturally from the start,” said David Munk‑Bogballe, Managing Director at Insectum ApS. “Insectum’s patented technology and franchise setup constitute a strong platform for accelerating impact and creating value. The facility will be Insectum’s first commercial facility and the first in Africa, and will mark a crucial first step in our quest to valorise organic waste across West Africa, starting in Ghana with Accra as a central hub. It has been overwhelming to experience the Ghanaian welcoming spirit, dedication and openness for business, and we cannot wait to get going.”
William Stanley‑Owusu, CEO of JSO Group of Companies, commented: “We see the scale of Ghana’s waste challenge every day as we handle increasing volumes of waste. This initiative aligns perfectly with JSO’s way of seeing waste as a valuable resource. By upcycling nutrients from organic waste into high‑quality protein ingredients for fish and poultry farmers, as well as organic fertiliser that improves soil health and yields for crop farmers, this project will unlock exciting potential in Ghana’s food system. The initiative shows JSO’s commitment to circular economy principles and demonstrates how vision, technology, and innovation can transform an environmental challenge into national opportunities supporting the important goal of strengthening Ghana’s agricultural sector.”
Michael Bundgaard, Managing Director at Michael Bundgaard Holding ApS, added: “Coming from a farming background, I’ve always believed that the most meaningful investments are those that strengthen food systems and create value for the people who depend on them. What excites me about working with JSO and Insectum is how we can come together across borders with trusted partners to build a sustainable franchise that valorises resources and supports a stronger agricultural sector. It’s the kind of opportunity that shows how aligned partners can create impact that lasts.”
Representing an initial investment of €2.5 million, the facility will process up to 8,000 tonnes of organic waste annually, contributing to improved waste management and strengthening local agricultural production. Financing arrangements are being finalised with support from the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark and commercial lenders, with implementation to commence upon completion of final agreements.
