The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources has announced that islands experiencing damage from coconut hispine beetles and spiraling whiteflies may now submit applications for pesticide assistance.
The move follows the first detection of the coconut hispine beetle in December 1999 at Sun Island Resort in Ari Atoll, a pest that devastates palm fronds and stunts coconut growth.
To combat the infestation, a Chinese‑supported research project identified a natural insect predator, leading to the establishment of the Palm Pest Biological Control Parasitoid Rearing Center at the Hanimaadhoo Agriculture Center. The facility, now operational, employs eco‑friendly breeding techniques and can rear up to 100,000 parasitoids per day for release into affected areas.
Under presidential directives to expedite relief, the Ministry has circulated letters to all local councils outlining the application process. Islands in Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu and Shaviyani atolls may collect pesticides directly from the Hanimaadhoo center, while all other atolls will obtain supplies through the Ministry of Agriculture.
During a recent official tour of Haa Alifu and Haa Dhaalu atolls, Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam presented the pesticide consignments to several councils, inspected agricultural sites and discussed broader fisheries and agriculture development with local leaders.