Seaweed farming is transforming Kenya’s coastal communities, offering a sustainable solution to the challenges posed by climate change and economic pressures. In Mwazaro, a village that previously relied on cassava and maize cultivation, residents have shifted to planting seaweed along the beachfront and drying it inland. This transition has not only provided an alternative livelihood but also helped meet the rising global demand for seaweed-derived products like soaps, shampoos, and food additives.
The practice was first introduced to Kenya in 2008 and has since expanded to encompass 20 coastal villages. The increasing adoption of seaweed farming is driven by environmental changes such as higher temperatures, rising sea levels, and inconsistent rainfall, which have made traditional farming less viable.
In Kibuyuni, another coastal village, the shift to seaweed farming has brought notable improvements. Investments in the industry have enhanced infrastructure and electricity access, positively impacting the community. The Seaweed Farmers’ Cooperative in Kibuyuni, employing over 100 households, is a testament to the sector’s potential to transform lives. Many farmers have experienced economic empowerment, allowing them to improve their living conditions and provide for their families.
For women like Tima Jasho, seaweed farming has been a game-changer. A mother of seven, Tima can now pay school fees for her children and has upgraded her family’s home from a mud structure to a brick house. She highlights the independence the industry offers, enabling her to earn her own income without reliance on a spouse. This empowerment resonates with many other women in the region who see seaweed farming as a pathway to financial stability and self-sufficiency.
Kenya’s seaweed farming industry produced nearly 100 tonnes in 2022, valued at over $30,000. The dried seaweed is exported to international markets, including China, France, and the United States. This burgeoning sector reflects the growing global demand for seaweed, which has seen its market value triple over the last two decades. The global seaweed market has grown from $5 billion in 2000 to $17 billion by 2021, driven by its applications in food, cosmetics, and even sustainable packaging.
Tanzania, Kenya’s neighbor, serves as a regional leader in seaweed farming, where it ranks as the third-largest export and employs over 26,000 farmers. While Kenya still lags behind in production volume, the industry’s potential for growth is immense. With continued investment and support, the country could significantly expand its contribution to the global seaweed market.
Environmental nonprofits and scientific organizations have played a crucial role in supporting Kenyan seaweed farmers, offering training, infrastructure development, and market linkages. These efforts aim to boost productivity and ensure that the industry remains sustainable amid climate challenges.
Seaweed farming offers a model of resilience and adaptation for coastal communities facing the dual pressures of environmental change and economic hardship. By providing a sustainable livelihood, it empowers individuals, especially women, and contributes to the broader goals of food security and economic diversification. As Kenya continues to develop its seaweed farming capabilities, the sector promises to be a vital part of the country’s response to climate and economic challenges.
