Pengolahan Eceng Gondok untuk Memperkuat Ekonomi Kreatif Ibu Rumah Tangga di Kelurahan Bolihuangga, Kecamatan Limboto, Kabupaten Gorontalo

Abstract

This community service activity sought to strengthen the creative-economy capacity of housewives in Bolihuangga Village, Limboto District, Gorontalo Regency, by processing locally abundant water hyacinth. The program combined an introductory session with hands-on training in material preparation, drying, weaving, and product finishing. Participants made placemats, coasters, and fruit baskets as sample products for further development in the handicraft market. Observations during the activity indicated that participants could follow the processing sequence and apply basic weaving techniques; they also engaged in discussions on production and marketing. These findings suggest that water hyacinth can serve as a locally sourced raw material for household creative enterprises. Sustained economic benefits, however, require follow-up mentoring, product-quality improvement, and stronger market access. Through this initiative, water hyacinth is no longer viewed merely as an environmental nuisance but can be developed into a creative commodity that supports community empowerment and the sustainable strengthening of the local economy.