Agricultural plots and a plaza market developed under Hulhumale’s second Urban Farming project have been inaugurated to promote sustainable agriculture.
The lots and plaza were inaugurated by the Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr Maryam Mariya at a ceremony held in Hulhumale’ on Tuesday. The ceremony was attended by the Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives Ishigami Rumiko, as well as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in the Maldives, Enrico Gaveglia, and the Housing Development Corporation (HDC)’s Managing Director Mauroof Jameel.
The Community Urban Farming initiative is part of the Sustainable Economic Empowerment for Development of MSMEs (SEEDS) project. The initiative is funded through a Japanese grant and implemented by UNDP and HDC.
The project’s main objectives include promoting sustainable agriculture in Hulhumale’ by providing farmers with the necessary tools and resources and adequate training. The project supports farmers in marketing and selling their produce in a sustainable manner.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Dr Mariya noted the long-term benefits of the project, stating that the entire Hulhumale’ area will benefit from the initiative. She pointed out that the project is not merely agricultural, but one that provides independent farming opportunities. Through the initiative, dependence on imports is reduced and local productivity is increased, she noted, adding that urban farming is proving to be both sustainable and profitable.
The Minister further noted that the project is both inclusive and community-driven. She noted that it enables participation from across society, and fosters agricultural innovation.
As part of the second phase of the project, 84 participants have completed training and received certificates. The programme was open to all above the age of 18. A total of 28 plots of land have been allocated for farmers, with 28 pop-up market stalls established nearby to facilitate direct sale of produce.
According to HDC, the Urban Farming project will contribute significantly to tree planting efforts in Hulhumale’, and will promote food accessibility. The corporation aims to strengthen social ties and assist in building a resilient urban food system, it said.