Quantifying role of seaweed (Caulerpa racemosa) harvesting in livelihood system of some coastal communities in Fiji

Abstract

The relative contributions of various work activities in the rural livelihood systems are not well understood. This study investigates roles of various work activities in the household income and employment in coastal areas of Fiji. Data were obtained by personal interview method from a random sample survey 48 households from four coastal villages in Fiji. Study revealed that workers in the coastal areas have work opportunities for only 20 h per week against a 40 h work norm. About 76% of their total work time was devoted to sea-based resources (58% for seaweed harvesting and 18% for fishing). Coconut collection and handicraft activities accounted for 17 and 7 percent of their work time, respectively. Overall, average weekly income of workers was about FJ$110.The share of income from seaweeds was about 50% and the shares of income from fishing, coconut activities and handicrafts were 21.9, 20.5 and 8 percent, respectively. Hence, it is clear that although seaweed harvesting activity in the overall economy of Fiji is still at the subsistence level, but this activity plays a very critical and substantial role in the food and nutrition security of the coastal communities.