Zanzibar to boost seaweed value through strategic industrialisation

Unguja. The government of Zanzibar is implementing a comprehensive strategy to enhance seaweed processing and secure higher returns for local farmers.

President Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi confirmed these plans during a high-level meeting at State House with TSC Purple Limited on March 30, 2026.

This initiative focuses on increasing production volumes while establishing reliable markets and competitive pricing structures.

A central component of this strategy involves the installation of advanced processing machinery at the Chamanangwe factory in Pemba.

Dr Stefan Kraan, Chairman of TSC Purple Limited, reported that technical setup will conclude by June 2026.

Formal production remains on schedule to commence in September 2026.

This facility will transform raw seaweed into diverse high-value commodities including organic fertilisers, animal feeds, and pharmaceutical products.

President Mwinyi has urged investors to adopt a direct purchasing model for raw seaweed. This approach aims to reduce operational costs for growers and improve overall yield efficiency.

By bypassng traditional drying constraints, farmers can transition more quickly to the industrial supply chain.

 This shift is expected to provide an immediate boost to the livelihoods of coastal communities.

Further development of the sector will be highlighted during a major international seaweed stakeholders' conference scheduled for June 2026.

The event will run from 16 to 19 June and will feature site visits across Zanzibar’s production zones.

These inspections aim to identify fresh investment opportunities and modernise farming techniques.

The government remains committed to ensuring that the blue economy delivers tangible economic transformation.