Urban farming project launched in Hulhumalé

The second phase of an urban farming initiative has been officially launched in Hulhumalé Tuesday, marking another milestone in efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and food security in the Maldives.

Supported by the Japanese government, the project is being implemented by UNDP in collaboration with the Housing Development Corporation (HDC). Japan has contributed $270,000 (MVR 4 million) towards the initiative.

At the ceremony held in Neighborhood 3 of Hulhumalé Phase 2—where designated land has been allocated for farming—Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko, highlighted the project’s goals. These include strengthening community ties, empowering women, youth and the elderly, and encouraging more people to join the urban agriculture movement.

Speaking at the event, Agriculture Minister Dr. Mariyam Mariya noted that the initiative has enabled 84 farmers to grow crops on 28 plots of land and sell their produce.