The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has signed an agreement with Viisi Group Private Limited to establish greenhouses on five northern islands as part of the Maldives Agribusiness Programme (MAP). The agreement was signed by Finance Executive at the Agriculture Ministry Fathimath Shaia and Managing Director of Viisi Group Ismail Rasheed.
MAP is a joint initiative between the International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD) and the Government of the Maldives, spanning 26 islands across Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, and Shaviyani Atolls. So far, greenhouses have been constructed on 12 islands, and some crops are already being cultivated. The new islands set to receive greenhouses are Kumundhoo and Hanimaadhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, and Bilehfahi, Kanditheemu, and Feydhoo in Shaviyani Atoll. The agreement also includes training for locals on growing melons and cucumbers using greenhouse technology.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr. Aishath Rameela emphasised the focus of the programme on modern farming practices and engaging youth in agriculture. She also highlighted that current greenhouse projects are successfully cultivating melons and cucumbers, with plans to introduce new varieties such as tomatoes, capsicums, and chillies.
The MAP aims to promote climate-smart, sustainable agriculture and encourage farmers to adopt modern techniques that surpass traditional farming methods.