The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has begun signing agreements with farmers awarded grants under the Maldives Agribusiness Programme (MAP).
MAP is a joint venture between the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), aimed at developing the agriculture sector and promoting modern agriculture through training programmes for farmers across the country.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, the Ministry of Finance and Planning, and the SME Development Finance Corporation (SDFC) launched a USD 985,000 grant matching scheme in March last year to provide financial assistance to farmers under MAP.
Applications for the Climate-Smart Production business grants under MAP was opened in 2024. Under the opportunity, 68 applicants applied for the grant, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. The Ministry is reviewing the applications of 16 applicants, while agreements have been signed with six recipients thus far.
The Agribusiness Matching Grant Programme is aimed at farmers and small and medium enterprises engaged in MAP in 26 islands across Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, and Shaviyani atolls. Greenhouses have already been established in 12 northern islands to introduce environmentally friendly and sustainable agriculture.