The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has urged Tanzania to develop climate-resilient seaweed species, establish cultivation zones away from pollution sources, and enforce strict regulations on industrial discharges. This initiative aims to help farmers mitigate climate change effects, improve their livelihoods, and enhance food security.

Mirko Dunner, Project Coordinator at UNCTAD, made these remarks at a recent workshop on the blue and circular economy for African journalists from the Indian Ocean region. The workshop, held in Zanzibar, was organized by the Africa 21 Network with support from the Zanzibar government, UNCTAD, the Sustainable Manufacturing and Environmental Pollution Programme (SMEP), the Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA), and the Swiss Embassy in Tanzania.

“We need to support farmers because climate change has already impacted seaweed growth in Zanzibar. The species they cultivate are increasingly affected by diseases and pests, leading to significant losses,” Dunner noted.

Tanzania has researchers capable of collaborating with international experts to develop climate-resilient seaweed species. However, the industry faces challenges, including inadequate regulatory frameworks, safety concerns, limited processing capabilities, price volatility, and restricted market access. Additionally, issues such as toxic algae and pollutant accumulation in contaminated areas pose threats to production.

To address these challenges, Dunner recommends that Tanzania and other stakeholders develop seaweed-specific policies, invest in local processing facilities, educate consumers on edible algae, implement sustainable harvesting protocols, monitor harmful algal blooms, and diversify products and markets.

“Seaweed is an abundant and underutilized resource that can be used for various products, generating income and improving livelihoods,” he added.

Seaweed is a versatile resource with applications in human and animal nutrition, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics. It can also replace plastics, produce biofertilizers, contribute to environmental conservation, and generate biofuels, particularly from microalgae. The industry's market value has more than tripled since the early 2000s, with estimates suggesting it could reach USD 120.5 billion.

Dunner encourages people to consume seaweed-based foods like salads and soups to combat nutritional deficiencies. Rich in proteins, vitamins, and fiber, seaweed serves as a valuable dietary supplement and is also used as livestock and aquatic feed.

Beyond economic benefits, seaweed farming promotes job creation, sustainable coastal economies, and alternative livelihoods, reducing dependence on tourism and fisheries. It also fosters gender inclusion, with women actively engaged in cultivation and processing, thereby enhancing economic independence.

Additionally, seaweed farming contributes to environmental sustainability by absorbing CO2, restoring marine ecosystems, and reducing plastic pollution. Expanding seaweed farming beyond Asia, which currently accounts for 98 percent of global production, could unlock new value chains and boost trade for developing nations.

Pili Pandu, a seaweed farmer at Mwani Zanzibar Company Ltd., advocates for greater recognition of seaweed’s value, similar to fish and other marine resources.

“Many women in other villages still struggle to get fair prices for their seaweed. They lack modern boats to access deeper waters, and climate change continues to impact their farming activities,” she said.

With strategic investment and policy development, Tanzania has the potential to transform its seaweed industry, ensuring sustainable livelihoods while contributing to global markets and environmental conservation.