A significant milestone has been reached in the development of a state-of-the-art multi-species hatchery in Maanagalaa, Gaafu Alifu Atoll promising to rejuvenate key marine species while bolstering the Maldives’ mariculture industry.
With the majority of construction complete, the facility—spearheaded under the Sustainable Fisheries Resources Development Project—is on track to begin operations this year, as confirmed by the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources.
Launched in 2017 with World Bank support, the project was awarded to Dubai-based Aqua Bridge Group in October 2022 under a 20-year Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) model. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu underscored its progress in his recent Parliamentary address, signaling its strategic importance in enhancing food security and livelihoods.
According to Ministry officials, critical infrastructure—including nurseries, laboratories, and live feed production facilities—is now being finalised.
"Most structural work is complete, with remaining tasks like pillar installations underway," a spokesperson told PSM News.
The hatchery will operate in two phases—the first focuses on foundational support systems, while the second will introduce net pens and advanced breeding units.
Once operational, the facility aims to produce 100 tonnes of baitfish, one million juvenile groupers, and 600,000 sea cucumbers annually—addresssing local fishermen’s needs and reducing pressure on wild stocks.
This initiative marks the first multi-species hatchery in the Maldives, a cornerstone of the government’s mariculture expansion strategy. The Ministry highlights the project’s broader socioeconomic impact, including job creation and income diversification for atoll communities.