Agricultural slots and plazas were inaugurated today as part of Urban Farming’s second initiative to promote sustainable agriculture in Hulhumalé.

The Urban Farming 2 plaza was officially opened by Agriculture Minister Dr Maryam Mariya during a special ceremony held last evening.

This project forms a component of the Japanese grant-funded “Community Urban Farming” initiative, delivered in collaboration with UNDP and Urban Farming. It is embedded within the broader Sustainable Economic Empowerment for Development of MSMEs (SEEDS) programme. The key aim is to foster sustainable agriculture in Hulhumalé by equipping farmers with essential tools and training, while also enabling them to market their produce effectively, ensuring a sustainable income.

Open to all citizens of Maldives aged 18 and above, the second phase of the project has successfully trained 84 farmers, who have now received their certification.

To support the commercial aspect, 28 pop-up market stalls have been established near 28 allocated slots, allowing farmers to sell their crops directly to consumers.

The Urban Farming initiative also plays a vital role in encouraging tree planting within Hulhumalé’s neighbourhoods.