A delegation from the Lives and Livelihoods Fund (LLF) is in the Maldives for a three-day visit to assess progress on the “Support People’s Livelihoods in the Fishery Sector through Sustainable Energy” project, which aims to modernise the industry with climate-smart solutions.

According to the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, the visit, from 6 to 9 October 2025, brings together representatives of LLF’s global partners, including the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, the Gates Foundation, the Islamic Development Bank, the Islamic Solidarity Fund for Development, King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, and the Qatar Fund for Development.

The USD 13.61 million project, co-funded by the Government of Maldives and LLF, is equipping fishing vessels with refrigerated seawater systems and solar photovoltaic technology to cut diesel use, improve catch quality, and reduce reliance on land-based ice. Beyond technology upgrades, the initiative also seeks to strengthen the fisheries value chain by improving market access, supporting women and youth entrepreneurs, and expanding opportunities in international trade.

According to project updates, 79 financing applications have been received, of which 41 have been approved. By 2026, the programme is expected to support 200 small and medium enterprises, install 1.6 megawatts of renewable energy capacity, and create 3,000 tonnes of upgraded fish storage. These outcomes are projected to raise fisher incomes by at least 10 per cent while boosting access to both local and international markets.