Aqua Farms Organization (AFO) is a Tanzanian initiative tackling the pressing challenges facing the country’s marine ecosystems and coastal communities. Operating along Tanzania’s coastline, AFO combines innovative aquaculture solutions with marine conservation to address issues of overfishing, habitat degradation, and climate change impacts on coastal ecosystems.
AFO’s programs span sustainable aquaculture development, marine habitat restoration, and community health initiatives. Their work includes establishing successful seaweed farming operations, implementing mangrove restoration projects, and developing community-based fisheries management systems. Through their integrated approach, they provide technical training, infrastructure support, and market access to ensure the sustainability of their interventions.
The organization has achieved significant impact, supporting 300 women in seaweed farming and increasing their monthly incomes from $30 to $80. They have successfully replanted over 40,000 mangroves across six hectares and helped conserve more than 200 hectares of coastal areas. Their community outreach has reached 5,000 people across 50 communities, while their education program has engaged 3,000 secondary school students in marine conservation awareness.