Zanzibar's Seaweed Farmers Brave Harsh Conditions for Global Demand

As of October 2025, Zanzibar's seaweed farming industry continues to thrive, employing thousands of local women in a physically demanding but economically important sector. The women wade through the waters near Zanzibar's beaches, collecting seaweed in colorful baskets that attract many tourist cameras.

However, the reality of the work is far grimmer than the picturesque scenes. Seaweed farmers like Mwanaisha Makame Simai report experiencing severe back, waist, and chest pain from the labor-intensive nature of the job. They also face risks of being stung or bitten by marine creatures, and even the threat of being swept away by strong waves, with some farmers having witnessed drowning incidents.

Despite these challenges, seaweed farming has become a crucial part of Zanzibar's "blue economy" initiative, aiming to drive growth from sustainable marine resources. The industry is now the third-largest contributor to the local economy after tourism and spices. Private investment and donor funding have been pouring in, with companies like Cargill partnering with conservation groups to improve yields and farmers' incomes.

Yet, many of Zanzibar's 25,000 seaweed farmers, the majority of whom are women, feel they are not benefiting enough from the industry's expansion. They argue that most of the profits end up with those in office jobs rather than the hardworking farmers in the field. Efforts are underway to empower the women, such as training them in cosmetics manufacturing, but the farmers continue to face an uphill battle to secure a fair share of the seaweed boom.