The government’s agricultural projects in Kondey, Gaafu Alifu Atoll, and Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll, are expected to deliver transformative benefits by introducing value-addition to farm produce, according to Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr Maryam Mariya. She highlighted the initiatives’ strategic and financial importance for the nation’s economic future.
In an interview with PSM News, Minister Mariya highlighted food security as a core government policy. Scaling domestic production of staple foods is essential to meet national consumption demands, she said. To support this, the administration has cultivated a favourable regulatory and financial environment to attract investment. The projects form part of a broader strategy to diversify crops, modernise farming, and establish value-addition centres nationwide.
A key element is the adoption of a public-private partnership model, combining private efficiency with public infrastructure. Minister Mariya described commercial agriculture in Kondey and Kaashidhoo as “a highly promising endeavour for the nation’s economic future.” While farming is already active in these islands, the government seeks external investors to accelerate growth.
Advanced machinery and formal value-addition centres are expected to elevate practices and expand output. “Expanding our operations signifies that the farmers in these communities aspire to engage in modern, environmentally sustainable agriculture,” she said. She noted bananas are already cultivated in Kaashidhoo, with plans to enhance value by processing them into chips or ice cream, thereby delivering supplementary growth.
The framework is open for participation, with further projects scheduled in Gan, Laamu Atoll, and Nolhivaram, Haa Dhaalu Atoll later this year. Minister Mariya stressed that these initiatives aim to foster sustainable regional development. The government is also working to ease logistical burdens, particularly in sourcing supplies and distributing goods. By addressing systemic challenges, the administration seeks long-term commercial viability and stability for the agricultural sector.