BY JOY OFASIA
Allan Sia, a young man from East Kwara’ae in Malaita Province, is trying something new — seaweed farming. For the first time, Allan and his wife are part of a local seaweed project near their village, and they are already seeing the results of their hard work.
“This is a new experience for me and my wife,” Allan said in an interview with Environment Media. “But after learning how seaweed farming works, we worked hard every day to keep the seaweed clean and healthy.”
The couple made their first harvest late last month and are now drying the seaweed for sale.
“We’ve harvested our first batch and we’re in the process of drying them,” he said. “I’m excited and already looking forward to our next harvest.”
Even though it’s been a positive start, Allan said the journey hasn’t been without challenges.
“As a new seaweed farmer, I faced some difficulties,” he explained. “For example, during rough seas, the seaweed can come off the ropes, especially when it’s ready to harvest.”
To avoid such problems, Allan said constant monitoring is key. “We need to keep checking the farm to make sure the seaweed grows well and stays healthy.”
Allan also took time to thank Hon. Preston Billy Junior, the provincial member for Ward 16 in East Kwara’ae. The seaweed project, which began in April this year, was applied for under the Asitolo Association and funded by the Ministry of Fisheries.
“I want to thank Hon. Preston Billy Junior for bringing this project to our area,” Allan said. “It gives me hope that my family will have more opportunities and a better future.”
In addition to seaweed farming, Allan and his family are also involved in cocoa farming — showing their strong commitment to making a living through sustainable agriculture.