To farm or not to farm? Seaweed contribution to fish, poultry and vegetable farming in Kenya for food and nutrition security

Most biotic marine resources are considered to be of high value economically and ecologically. They have high levels of bio-active compounds and nutrition that stimulate other aquatic and terrestrial systems to enhance production and thus improving livelihoods. Considering the environment and livelihood nexus in regards to marine aquaculture development, extractive species like seaweeds have more strategic importance for coastal countries like Kenya is their value chains are well developed. Over the years, Kenya and other regional countries have farmed seaweeds and exported dry raw products with minimal value addition. With increasing global interest for seaweed use in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, food and extraction of bio-active compounds; multi-dimensional research was undertaken to assess the contributions of seaweed inclusion to the omega-3 levels for freshwater and marine tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), influence on egg size of indigenous chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) and enhancement of growth in traditional vegetables (Amaranthus spp). The results indicated that Omega-3 fatty acids as DHA was 25% more when seaweed was used while vitamin D, proteins and calories increased by 14.5%, 1.4% and 5.8% respectively. Inclusion of seaweeds in the feed for indigenous chicken led to an average increase in the size of eggs by 6.7% while Amaranthus spp stem circumference increased by 1.9% and production in wet weight by 10%. The study testifies that the varieties of seaweeds found along the coast of Kenya have available nutrients and bio-active compounds that are capable of enhancing food systems productivity in the blue and green sectors globally.

Key words: Inclusion, Omega-3, eggs, growth, production

Action Area: (1) Sustainable Blue Economy (2) Sustainable fisheries