In a significant move to strengthen national food security and diversify agricultural opportunities, the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has commenced setup of a special facility for producing value-added agricultural products on Goidhoo, Shaviyani Atoll.
The project is a collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and is funded by the Government of Japan.
The initiative is part of a larger project, the 'Livelihood Enhancement of Small Scale Farmers in SAARC Region through Small Scale Agribusiness Focusing on Value Chain Development,' aimed at bolstering the Maldivian agricultural sector.
The new facility aims to create products with higher market value from locally grown produce. By processing and packaging these goods, the government seeks to facilitate their sale in international markets, providing farmers with higher and more stable incomes.
According to the Ministry, the project aligns with the government's vision to create more opportunities for youth and women in farming, reduce the country's dependence on food imports, and establish more sustainable food systems. The construction of the facility is now complete, and the Ministry is in the process of procuring the necessary equipment.
Goidhoo has already distinguished itself as a leader in sustainable farming practices. Farmers on the island were the first in the country to receive certification under the Maldives Good Agricultural Practices (MGAP) scheme. This national scheme promotes environmentally friendly farming methods to ensure the safety and quality of locally grown food.
The MGAP certification is expected to boost consumer trust in local produce and open up further market opportunities for Goidhoo's farmers. The new value-added facility will build upon this success, providing farmers with additional avenues for income generation and further solidifying Goidhoo's position as a model for agricultural innovation in the Maldives.