By RODRICK DESURI
Auki
More rural coastal communities in Malaita Province are venturing into seaweed farming.
This has come to the attention of many people after some successful farmers and groups shared testimonies about their successful seaweed farming and their earnings in the province.
In an interview with the Malaita Provincial Fisheries Officer, Alick Konamalefo, he said many individuals who are interested have started their own farms.
He said that some even started farming without attending any seaweed training or receiving support from the fisheries office.
He said that the momentum of seaweed farming has risen compared to previous years in the province.
“There is growing interest from communities. New communities are venturing into seaweed farming,” he said.
He added that regions across Malaita are actively engaging in seaweed farming and are in the process of expanding their operations.
“Many of the active farmers in the province have attended trainings and are supported by the fisheries office in Auki,” he said.
Seaweed is a term for various large marine algae and plant-like organisms that grow in oceans, rivers, and lakes. It is a vital, nutrient-dense, and sustainable resource used for food, fertilizer, and in products like cosmetics.
Some farmers have also received farming equipment and supplies like seaweed lines, floats, and seaweed plants from the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources to improve their operations and support their families.
Seaweed farming in the country contributed about $7 million in 2024 and $11 million in 2025.
Island Sun understands that a few foreign-operated businesses in the country are purchasing seaweed locally for export to overseas markets.
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