(Kwale) – Kwale County government is intensifying efforts to promote seaweed farming among coastal communities, aiming to enhance sustainable livelihoods and diversify income sources for the region’s residents.
Kwale County has identified seaweed farming as a promising venture for local fishing communities along the Indian Ocean shores. Cultivating various species of red, brown, and green seaweed has become a source of income for these communities, offering opportunities for both domestic use and industrial applications.
Seaweed, often called the “wonder plant of the sea,” provides renewable resources for food, energy, chemicals, and medicines while playing a vital role in the marine ecosystem. Its environmental benefits include absorbing carbon and reducing ocean acidification, although global warming poses challenges to its quality.
Currently, seaweed farming thrives in several coastal villages, including Kibuyuni, Mwazaro, Mkwiro, Mtimbwani, Gazi, Nyumba Sita, Tumbe, Funzi, Changai, and Jimbo. Local farmers harvest the crop, which sells for Ksh 40–60 per kilogram (approximately $0.27–$0.41 per kilogram) in fresh or dried forms.
Roman Shera, Kwale’s County Executive for Agriculture and Fisheries, emphasized the county’s commitment to unlocking seaweed’s potential. Speaking during a training forum on restorative seaweed aquaculture, Shera highlighted the collaboration with farmers and stakeholders to improve production, value addition, and awareness of seaweed’s benefits.
Shera called seaweed farming “Kwale’s untapped treasure,” citing the region’s favorable environment and historical role as a pioneer in the industry. He stressed the need to integrate seaweed farming with fisheries to maximize its potential for economic and environmental gains.
Local initiatives have focused on empowering women, who make up a significant portion of the seaweed farming workforce. The county government is working to strengthen support systems and boost awareness of seaweed’s ecological and commercial value.
Common Uses of Seaweed Extracts
| Industry | Application | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture | Soil fertilizers and animal feed | Organic farming products |
| Cosmetics | Skincare products and serums | Anti-aging creams |
| Pharmaceuticals | Medicinal extracts | Health supplements |
| Packaging | Biodegradable alternatives | Eco-friendly packaging |
Nancy Gitonga, CEO of the African Women Development Program, praised seaweed farming as a renewable resource offering stable incomes compared to the increasingly unpredictable fishing sector. She called for greater investment in equipping farmers with modern cultivation tools and knowledge.
Gitonga also highlighted seaweed’s environmental role in purifying the sea and improving oxygen levels, further emphasizing its potential for job creation and income diversification.
Meanwhile, Celestine Rono, Director of Corporate Services at the Kenya Export Promotion and Branding Agency, assured farmers of support in accessing international markets. She pledged assistance in branding, product development, and packaging to ensure high-value market entry.
A local seaweed farmer, Marinda Bakari from Kibuyuni, expressed optimism about the growing attention to the sector. Bakari underscored the need for modern farming equipment and technology to enhance productivity and profitability.