Ministry of Fisheries, Marine Resources, and Agriculture has handed over two uninhabited islands to Agro National Corporation (AgroNat) for farming and agriculture.
The ministry handed over Mulidhoo in Haa Alif Atoll and Gaadhoo in Laamu Atoll, with Agronat also to receive Gan in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. AgroNat stated it is working to establish water and electricity services and making basic farming and agricultural resources available in the two islands, before farmers begin their work.
Around 1,500 farmers have expressed interest in the contract farming project launched by the corporation. AgroNat stated it has begun working with 500 of the 787 contracted farmers.
AgroNat was established by the government to market agricultural produce from local farms and provide a better income for farmers. The corporation has established contracts with farmers from 47 islands, to produce 17 different types of fruits and vegetables. AgroNat is providing technical and financial assistance to local farmers to produce these items, and helping them to market their produce.