The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has announced the establishment of a facility on Goidhoo, Shaviyani Atoll, to produce value-added agricultural products, marking a step forward in strengthening national food security and diversifying farming opportunities.
Developed in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and funded by the Government of Japan, the project forms part of the wider initiative ‘Livelihood Enhancement of Small Scale Farmers in SAARC Region through Small Scale Agribusiness Focusing on Value Chain Development.’ The facility will focus on processing and packaging locally grown produce, allowing farmers to sell higher-value products in both local and international markets.
The Ministry stated that the project aims to reduce reliance on food imports, create more opportunities for youth and women in farming, and promote sustainable food systems. Construction of the facility has been completed, with procurement of equipment now underway.
Goidhoo has already established itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture. Farmers on the island were the first in the country to achieve certification under the Maldives Good Agricultural Practices (MGAP) scheme, which promotes environmentally friendly farming techniques and ensures the safety and quality of local produce. The certification is expected to enhance consumer confidence and open new markets for Goidhoo’s farmers.
The value-added facility is expected to build on this success, offering new income-generating opportunities and further positioning Goidhoo as a model of agricultural innovation in the Maldives.
