Seaweed farmers encouraged to embrace modern techniques

TANGA: THE government has advised seaweed farmers across the country to embrace modern farming techniques to boost productivity and increase competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.

Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office (Policy, Parliament and Coordination), Dr James Kilabuko, made the call when closing a 12-day capacity-building training for seaweed farmers’ groups in Mkinga District, Tanga Region.

The training, held from August 4 to 15, this year, aimed at strengthening the seaweed value chain.

Dr Kilabuko said the skills imparted would help farmers improve both the quality and quantity of their produce, making it more competitive globally.

He noted that the training also covered value addition, safe use of chemicals in seaweed-based products, packaging and market access strategies, key areas for raising the profile of Tanzanian seaweed.

“The knowledge you have gained will enhance your production and standards, positioning your products competitively in local and international markets,” he said.

He further stressed the importance of rescue and first aid skills gained during the programme, urging farmers to share the lessons with colleagues.

“Your working environment is the ocean and the training on rescue is crucial for saving lives in case of emergencies,” he emphasised.

Earlier, Assistant Director in the Prime Minister’s Office, Col Selestine Masalamado, explained that the training was part of the second phase of implementing the National Guidelines for Combating Crime in Marine and Great Lakes Areas, launched by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa in February 2023.

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He said the first phase covered Mafia, Pangani and Bagamoyo districts, where farmers’ groups received training, sardine drying racks were built and a modern patrol boat was procured.

Building on this, the government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have continued support by funding two new patrol boats, construction of seaweed drying facilities, provision of processing machines and training for 26 groups in Mkinga.

Mkinga District Executive Director, Mr Rashid Karim Gembe, praised the initiative, saying it would revolutionise the sector and empower local farmers economically.

UNDP representative, Mr Saimon Nkonoki, lauded the government’s commitment and urged farmers to put the lessons into practice to improve livelihoods.

Farmers also welcomed the training, with Ms Aisha Jumbe noting that knowledge in financial management, market demand and value addition would enable them to produce items such as bathing soap, disinfectants and herbal remedies.

The programme was organised by the Prime Minister’s Office through the Department of Disaster Management in collaboration with the Institute of Rural Development Planning (IRDP), with financial support from the Government of Japan and UNDP