The National Laboratory of Agriculture has been officially inaugurated in Fuvahmulah City. The facility was inaugurated by Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr Maryam Mariya.
The laboratory has been established to address challenges arising from the lack of national-level agricultural research, diagnostic services and specialised laboratory infrastructure. It aims to enhance farm productivity, strengthen disease and pest control measures, and improve national biosecurity.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Minister Mariya said the establishment of the National Agriculture Laboratory in Fuvahmulah City represents a significant step forward in the ongoing efforts to modernise agricultural services and ensure national food security.
She said the laboratory will support the selection of climate change–resilient crops, strengthen disease control, improve soil quality and increase agricultural productivity.
“The laboratory is designed to provide technical assistance under one roof to develop the agricultural sector and help farmers adapt to climate change. Services will include soil analysis, plant disease diagnosis, insect research and plant tissue culture,” the Minister said.
The National Laboratory of Agriculture will provide services to farmers, as well as researchers, extension officers and policymakers. Authorities say the facility will play a key role in promoting sustainable, climate-friendly and safe agricultural practices across different parts of the Maldives.
The laboratory was established under the Project for Developing Sustainable Agricultural Economy (PDSAE), implemented by the United Nations Development Programme in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, with financial support from the Japan.