The separation of the sponge farmers’ cooperative from marinecultures.org was duly celebrated on February 24. Over 130 people attended the various speeches and the farmers made a great entrance.
It has taken us around 10 years to develop this globally unique model. Today, the women farmers can manage and develop all areas of their business independently. They are proud. And so are we.
We have started two new sponge farming projects on Pemba island and in Kigombe, Tanzania. In a first phase we are looking for commercially viable and cultivable sponge species with support from the local community. A potentially interesting sponge species was found on Pemba and we are currently testing if the successful Jambiani model can be adopted.
The SOMWAT research project has been extended until fall 24. The aim is to research the local seagrass meadows, as well coral and sponge reefs. Their ability of these habitats to act as a filter and improve the quality of coastal water is often underestimated, but represents an important ecosystem service that has an impact on local economic development. These habitats offer numerous benefits for the livelihoods of the local population.