Seaweed farmers can now take advantage of more income generating opportunities.
They are currently attending a Seaweed Production programme with Indonesian experts, who have helped make seaweed cultivation a thriving industry in their home country.
Indonesian Seaweed Expert Maria Gigih says these seaweed farmers can now make processed foods and items out of seaweed for commercial gain..
“If people sell raw material seaweed, there will be no benefit but if you sell processed seaweeds like juice, cream, crackers and also soap and lotion, people will benefit more.”
Maria said the training techniques are environmentally friendly and will develop the skills of these farmers.
Yasawa Seaweed farmer Vanavasa Nalawanikula says with more than 200 seaweed farms in the Yasawa nursery, plans are in place for the further development of the cash-producing crop.
Levuka Rep Sairusi Senilawalawa says all seaweed in the Eastern Division were washed away during TC Winston and farmers have plans to start again.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry helped host the programme that trained 32 participants. in association with the Indonesian Government
The program ends next Tuesday.
