The government has called on seaweed farmers across Tanzania to embrace modern farming techniques to boost production, improve quality, and expand 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 appeal on Friday while closing a 12-day capacity-building programme for seaweed farming groups in Mkinga District, Tanga Region.
The training, held from August 4 to 15, 2025, brought together women and youth groups engaged in the cultivation of the high-value marine crop.
“The modern farming skills you have acquired will enable you to increase both the volume and quality of your seaweed, strengthening your position in the market at home and abroad,” Dr. Kilabuko said.
“Value addition, proper use of inputs, quality packaging, and targeted marketing will help you secure buyers in Tanzania and beyond.”he added
He added that the training was designed to tackle the key challenges facing seaweed farmers and strengthen the crop’s value chain.
He urged participants to pass on the knowledge gained particularly in lifesaving and first-aid skills to group members who could not attend.
“Your work takes place in the water, so the rescue techniques you have learned are vital not only for saving your own life but also that of your colleagues when emergencies occur,” he stressed.
Earlier, Assistant Director in the Prime Minister’s Office, Col. Selestine Masalamado, explained that the Mkinga training marked the second phase of the government’s strategy to combat crime in territorial waters and the Great Lakes.
Launched in February 2023 by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, the programme also aims to improve maritime safety and support coastal livelihoods.
“The first phase was implemented in Mafia, Pangani and Bagamoyo districts, focusing on training fishing and farming groups, building fish-drying racks, and procuring a modern patrol boat,” Col. Masalamado said.
He noted that the success of that phase prompted further support from the Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which have funded two new patrol boats, seaweed drying facilities, a milling machine, and training for 26 seaweed farming groups in Mkinga.
Mkinga District Executive Director, Mr. Rashid Karim Gembe, praised the initiative, saying it would transform the seaweed value chain and empower local farmers economically.
He pledged to continue supporting them in achieving their production and marketing goals.
UNDP representative Mr. Saimon Nkonoki commended the strong participation in the training, describing it as a sign of the government’s commitment to empowering coastal communities.
“We are committed to sustaining this partnership and encourage beneficiaries to put the skills into practice, especially those gained through hands-on training,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the trainees, Ms. Aisha Jumbe said the programme had opened new opportunities for farmers to improve their livelihoods.
“We have learned financial management, market analysis, and how to align production with market demand,” she said.
“This will help us add value to our products including bath soaps, laundry detergents, toilet cleaners, and medicinal items and reach more customers.”she added
The training, which focused on modern farming methods, group management, financial literacy, record keeping, value chain enhancement, and market access, was organised by the Prime Minister’s Office through the Disaster Management Department in collaboration with the Institute of Rural Development Planning. It was funded by the Government of Japan and UNDP.