Food security boosted in Shaviyani atoll, with 1,159 new saplings

In a significant move to bolster food security, 1,159 saplings of various edible plants have been distributed across four islands in Shaviyani Atoll.

This initiative is a core part of the Food Security Programme, spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare.

The ministry confirmed that the distribution, which took place this month, included a diverse range of crops such as breadfruit, rose apple, moringa, and taro. The aim is to enhance local food production and reduce reliance on external sources.

The four beneficiary islands in Shaviyani Atoll are:

Sh. Funadhoo:

• Breadfruit: 65 trees (8 for households, 57 for offices)

• Rose Apple: 116 trees (9 for households, 107 for offices)

• Moringa: 111 trees (5 for households, 106 for offices)

• Taro: 32 trees (32 for households)

Sh. Lhaimagu:

• Breadfruit: 59 trees for households

• Rose Apple: 52 trees for households

• Moringa: 51 trees for households

• Taro: 216 trees for households

Sh. Narudhoo:

• Breadfruit: 60 trees (7 for households, 53 for offices)

• Rose Apple: 71 trees (12 for households, 59 for offices)

• Moringa: 67 trees (11 for households, 56 for offices)

• Taro: 56 trees for households

Sh. Bilehfahi:

• Breadfruit: 29 trees for households

• Rose Apple: 29 trees for households

• Moringa: 29 trees for households

• Taro: 116 trees for households

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, this distribution responds to requests from local councils keen on increasing food security for their communities. The Agriculture Center in Hanimaadhoo is instrumental in supplying the necessary trees to these islands. As an example of ongoing efforts, 50 breadfruit trees were also provided to the Hanimaadhoo council in June.

The government has reiterated its commitment to prioritizing food security, especially in the face of potential disasters. This commitment is further underscored by the establishment of a dedicated Ministry of Agriculture, designed to strengthen the nation's agricultural sector.

Despite these governmental initiatives, some local farmers express concerns that adequate support and work are still needed to fully realize the agricultural potential.

In a broader effort to green the nation, the government has also launched an ambitious program to plant five million trees across the Maldives.