Conservation Kiosk for Seaweed in Rote Ndao

The Conservation Kiosk in Oelolot village, Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara, was established as a joint initiative by Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN/TNC) and Pelita Kasih, with support from the Tahija Foundation. Inaugurated in August 2019, the kiosk promotes sustainable seaweed farming practices that align with ecological, social, and economic goals. Community members join by committing to conservation-based Best Management Practices, gaining access to affordable farming supplies and capacity-building training.

This initiative serves as a platform to demonstrate that conservation and livelihoods can go hand in hand, empowering communities through sustainable aquaculture. It is currently active in Oelolot and Mbuaein villages and supports conservation of the Sawu Sea Marine National Park. Funded through MACP until June 2025, the initiative will continue under Koralestari, who will support the farmers-led business through investment and technical assistance. The business will initially act as a coordinating hub and intermediary, and eventually targeting sustainable and premium markets.