Artisanal Seaweed Aquaculture in Kenya’s Blue Space: Nexus of Nutrition, Human Health, Climate Change, and Livelihoods

Date
January 2024 to December 2027
Countries
Keywords
seaweed
aquaculture
food quality
food security
climate change
Institutions
Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) (Kenya)
Research fields
Agriculture and Food Sciences
Earth and Environmental Sciences

The project aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of artisanal seaweed aquaculture in Kenya's coastal areas, focusing on its socio-economic contributions, suitable farming methods, nutritional value of the seaweed, and the consequences of climate change.

The research objectives include the assessment of socio-economic contributions of seaweed aquaculture, determination of suitable farming methods, evaluation of nutritional value of the cultivated seaweed, as well as the production of some bioactive compounds, and finally an assessment of climate change induced impacts on seaweed aquaculture. The research aims to improve our understanding of the holistic impact of artisanal seaweed aquaculture on coastal communities. By addressing socio-economic, nutritional, and environmental dimensions, the study aims to inform policies, interventions, and steer future research, contributing to sustainable development goals and enhancing the well-being of coastal populations in Kenya.