The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has launched a training initiative to identify and prepare lead farmers for islands where greenhouses are being developed. The programme is part of the Maldives Agribusiness Program (MAP), a joint effort between the Ministry and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
MAP is currently being implemented across 26 islands in Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, and Shaviyani Atolls. The training will take place in two rounds, with a total of 28 participants, including 18 farmers and Ministry field staff. The first round runs from 10 to 17 August, followed by the second round from 25 to 30 August at the Hanimaadhoo Agricultural Centre.
According to the Ministry, the aim is to equip lead farmers with the skills needed to ensure best agricultural practices and maximise the benefits of the greenhouses established by IFAD members. Responsibilities for these trained farmers will include maintaining activities in line with the designated crop calendar, conducting regular checklist monitoring, assisting in field and greenhouse management, and identifying areas for improvement in collaboration with the Ministry’s extension staff.
The government has so far developed greenhouses in a dozen islands in the northern Maldives as part of broader efforts to promote climate-resilient farming and enhance food security.
