The "Pesa Pesa" Initiative
Tanzania | Empowering Seaweed
Farmers through Value Addition
and Blue Economy Innovation
In Zanzibar, seaweed became a cornerstone of the blue economy and a crucial
income source for women and youth in coastal areas. Despite its potential, poor
quality production and inadequate post-harvest practices resulted in low earnings
and restricted access to premium markets.
The team’s first step was partnering with a women-led seaweed farming group
headed by Aisha, a local leader who produced low-grade seaweed. The
intervention included training, providing equipment, and forming strategic
partnerships, such as with a stakeholder who donated solar dryers to enhance
product quality.