Farming Beneath the Waves
In the clear coastal waters of Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania, thousands of women are cultivating seaweed, a fast growing marine plant used in cosmetics, food and pharmaceuticals. It’s a low cost low impact activity with big potential
Women led coastal enterprise
Over 80% of Tanzania seaweed farmers are women, many from fishing villages. They anchor seaweed lines in shallow lagoons, harvest every 6 weeks, and dry the plants under the sun before sale.
Economic and environmental benefits
Seaweed farming offers steady income especially where finishing is unreliable. It also absorbs carbon dioxide stabilizes ecosystems and requires no fertilizers or freshwater making it one of the most sustainable crops on the planet
Value addition on the rise
Entrepreneurs and cooperatives are now processing seaweed into soaps, lotions, powders, and export grade carrageen. With better equipment and branding, they’re tapping into regional and international markets.
A blue-green economy in motion
Seaweed farming in Tanzania shows how simple, scalable marine industries can empower women, boost rural economies and contribute to climate resilience.
