Empowerment of Free-Range Chicken Farmers Through Local Feed Technology Based on Maggot and Corn at KPSH Sukabumi

Abstract

This empowerment program strengthened the capacity of the Sinar Harapan Farmer Group (KPSH) through the development and application of local feed technology based on maggot and corn. Training activities significantly improved participants’ theoretical understanding and practical skills in maggot cultivation, maggot meal processing, corn flour production, and independent feed formulation. As a result, feed availability increased from 30% before the program to 100% after training. A standardized local feed production unit equipped with a dryer, grinder, mixer, and maggot cultivation facilities was successfully established, enabling the production of consistent, high-quality feed ingredients. KPSH is now capable of producing 3–5 kg of fresh maggot per day and processing it into nutrient-rich maggot meal, reducing feed costs while supporting sustainable waste management. Farmers also produce corn flour from locally sourced corn, enhancing feed independence and production stability. The adoption of maggot- and corn-based feed improved the productivity and efficiency of IPB-D1 chickens while creating new economic opportunities through maggot meal commercialization. The development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), the formation of a trained technical team, and a long-term scale-up plan further strengthen program sustainability. Overall, this initiative demonstrates that appropriate technology, capacity building, and local resource optimization can significantly improve farmer independence, production efficiency, and community welfare.