Upaya Peningkatan Perekonomian Nelayan Garam Melalui Diversifikasi Produk

Abstract

Kaliwlingi Village in Brebes District, Brebes Regency, is one of the coastal villages where the majority of the population depends on salt production as their main livelihood. Despite having abundant natural resource potential, salt fishermen in this village still face various challenges, such as limited technology, low product added value, and limited market access. This results in their income remaining low and unstable. This program aims to provide integrated solutions, ranging from increasing technical capacity, developing value-added products, to strengthening marketing strategies. The method of implementing this activity involves several main stages. The first stage is an initial survey and needs analysis that aims to identify the socio-economic conditions of salt fishermen and the potential that exists in Kaliwlingi Village. This stage is followed by training and technology transfer focused on processing salt into value-added products such as iodized salt, spa salt, and premium cooking salt with field assistance by experts. In addition, this program also includes product development and innovation, where salt fishermen are invited to participate in product development workshops to create innovative salt derivative products that are in accordance with market needs. The marketing stage involves training in marketing and branding strategies, which are designed to help fishermen expand the market for their products, both through traditional and digital distribution channels. This program also establishes partnerships with industry to support the distribution and marketing of salt products produced by fishermen in Kaliwlingi Village. Monitoring and evaluation are carried out periodically to assess the success of the program in achieving the goals that have been set, as well as to provide solutions if there are obstacles. At the end of the program, a thorough evaluation and socialization of the results to the wider community as well as scientific publications are carried out to disseminate the good practices that have been developed. With this comprehensive approach, it is hoped that this community service program can have a significant impact on improving the welfare of salt fishermen in Kaliwlingi Village, as well as encouraging the development of a more sustainable and highly competitive local economy.