A national policy on agroforestry has been formulated and officially handed over to the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare.
The “National Policy on Agroforestry and Trees Outside Forests 2026” was developed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock in collaboration with World Agroforestry (ICRAF) and the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR–ICRAF).
The policy was formally handed over by Dr Elian Ubalijuro, Director General of World Agroforestry to Maryam Mariya, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare.
The Ministry said the primary objective of the policy is to establish an economically and environmentally beneficial system by reviving trees in farmland and residential areas across the Maldives.
The policy outlines the importance of agricultural development and vegetation regeneration, taking into account the unique environmental conditions and soil-related challenges of the islands. Particular emphasis has been placed on the protection of reeds and coastal vegetation. The policy also highlights the role of agroforestry in mitigating climate change impacts and strengthening food security.
The vision of the policy is to transform agriculture into a climate-adapted and sustainable livelihood. Under the policy, incentives will be introduced to empower agriculture-related associations and encourage tree planting. Scientific research will also be utilised to revive and sustainably benefit from indigenous plant species in the Maldives.
The Ministry said the policy will contribute to environmental protection while increasing agricultural productivity. As a result, it is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the country.
Agroforestry refers to agricultural practices that integrate crops with standing trees, without clearing tall vegetation. The approach is considered a new agricultural system to be revived in the Maldives.
Currently, the most common agricultural practice in the Maldives involves clearing land by cutting down trees. Agroforestry, also referred to as the cultivation of stream-side trees, is recognised as a method that supports environmental protection and long-term sustainability.