Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr. Aishath Rameela has called for increased national investment in the marketing of agricultural products. She made this statement during her address at the 52nd session of the Committee on World Food Security in Rome.
Speaking at the forum on Coordinated Policy Responses to Food Crisis—The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World—Minister Dr. Rameela highlighted the Maldives' efforts to eradicate hunger and ensure that the food provided is nutritious, in line with the committee's guidelines for policy implementation at national, regional, and international levels. She also outlined the challenges faced in addressing these issues.
In her remarks, Minister Dr. Rameela noted the Maldives' heavy reliance on imported food products, acknowledging that this dependence is not a sustainable solution. She emphasized the urgent need for collective action to achieve future food security in the Maldives, advocating for a transformation of the country’s food system to ensure environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.
Additionally, Minister Rameela addressed the obstacles the Maldives faces in meeting the objectives outlined in the Right to Food Guidelines. She expressed concerns about the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture, limitations on land availability for agricultural expansion, and the sudden global disruptions caused by conflicts and disease outbreaks. She stressed the importance of promoting various forms of gardening, including urban, school, and community gardening, as well as increasing public awareness. The minister also underscored the necessity of utilizing renewable energy sources in agricultural practices and enhancing investments to lower marketing costs for agricultural products.
Furthermore, Minister Rameela stated that small island nations like the Maldives require international support to ensure food security. She expressed optimism about addressing the current challenges to food security through information exchange, along with financial and technical assistance.