Seaweed cultivation on a commercial scale in Tanzania has only taken place since 1989, so it is difficult to predict the long-term sustainability and viability of this practice. However, indications are that, despite initial resistance to seaweed cultivation in coastal communities, the simple technology of the off-bottom method, the low cost of inputs required and the ease of cultivation and drying in terms of time and knowledge required, as well as high returns have led to such a practice becoming rapidly acceptable for both individuals and families. Some groups have also started to farm communal plots although the preferred practice appears to be individually-owned plots. In addition, once it was proved that seaweed farming does not interfere with fishing activities, the activity became more acceptable to men. At Jambiani, some fishermen reported that seaweed cultivation was positively affecting their catch rates as the farms were attracting fish which were being caught with gill nets.
Table 2 shows estimated costs and revenues for the cultivation of a 500 square metre plot for one harvest. Assuming 10 – 12 harvests per year, an individual can earn up to 139,000 Tanzanian Shillings per annum. As plots are of varying sizes, annual earnings will obviously differ from individual to individual.
Table 2 Costs and Revenues for a 500 square metre plot per harvest
| TANZANIAN SHILLINGS | US $ | |
|---|---|---|
| Costs : | ||
| Seedlings | nil | nil |
| Wooden stakes | nil | nil |
| Coir rope | 500 | 2.59 |
| Total costs | 500 | 2.59 |
| Revenues : | ||
| 2079 kilos of wet seaweed = 260 kilos of dry seaweed | 11 700 | 60.62 |
| Total revenues | 11 700 | 60.62 |
| PROFIT | 11 200 | 58.03 |
Assumptions
