Minister of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works Adam Shareef Umar has announced that the newly launched AgriBoat will play a key role in ensuring food security in the Maldives. He made the statement during the launch ceremony of the first AgriBoat at a ceremony held in Hulhumale' Phase I.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Adam Shareef emphasised that the introduction of the AgriBoat marks a historic milestone for the country, significantly enhancing the agricultural sector and improving the livelihoods of citizens. He noted that the advanced design of the vessel would create new business opportunities in agriculture and ensure more efficient and timely delivery of produce.
The AgriBoats are being developed under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Project for Developing a Sustainable Agricultural Economy, with support from the Government of Japan. The design of the vessel was conceptualised by the Marine Police of the Maldives Police Services (MPS), and the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade, along with the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, have contributed to the project.
Meanwhile, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives Takeuchi Midori reaffirmed Japan's commitment to assisting the Maldivian government in achieving food security. She also highlighted that the AgriBoat would generate employment and further expand the agricultural sector.
The AgriBoat, specifically designed to meet the unique challenges of the Maldivian environment, includes grain storage, solar-powered cold and dry storage facilities, and crew quarters. The vessel operates in an eco-friendly manner, utilising solar cold storage to minimise environmental impact. It is set to travel from Laamu Atoll to Male' City, delivering fresh produce.
Agro National Corporation (AgroNat) awarded the contract to Fix In Marine Private Limited to construct the vessels. The first AgriBoat has been completed, with a second one under construction. The project aims to establish a sustainable and reliable transportation system for agricultural products, ensuring fresh produce reaches Maldivian markets swiftly and efficiently.