The researchers explored how aquaculture can coexist with fisheries, transport, and other activities, using Inhaca Island as an example.
Photo: Lucilla Giulietti/IMR
A team of researchers from the Institute of Marine Research (IMR) of Norway has visited several experimental facilities on Inhaca Island, east of the capital Maputo, Mozambique, to develop the cultivation of seaweed and green mussels.
These low-trophic species, meaning they usually feed on plant matter or microorganisms, are of interest because they contribute to more sustainable production of food and feed resources.
"In this project, we explore whether such production could become a new opportunity for local coastal communities in Mozambique," said marine scientist and project leader Øivind Strand.
The researchers exchange knowledge and experience with local scientific communities and conduct training sessions on how to assess whether seafood is safe for consumption. During one of these tests, they detected Salmonella, parasites, and illegal veterinary drugs in the fish.
"That's why it is important for us to share our knowledge, while also learning from local experience. It gives us a stronger foundation for continued collaboration," expressed marine scientist Julia Storesund.
This initiative is part of the Ocean for Development program, funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad), which aims to contribute to sustainable social and economic development and to improve food security, nutrition, and livelihoods.
In the African country, IMR collaborates with the Mozambique Oceanographic Institute (InOM), the National Institute for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (IDEPA), Eduardo Mondlane University, and the National Institute of Fisheries Research (INIP).