The Government is working to strengthen oversight of the country’s 93 protected areas, only five of which are currently well managed, through ranger training and sustainable conservation efforts, according to Tourism and Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim.

Speaking at the sixth session of the Ahaa forum series on Monday night, the Minister reiterated the importance of properly maintaining protected areas, noting that only five of the 93 currently receive adequate oversight.

He said rangers are currently active in Baa Atoll, Addu City, Fuvahmulah City, and the Farukolhu area in Shaviyani Atoll Funadhoo. Plans are underway to sustainably manage more areas, starting with the deployment of trained rangers.

The Government, in collaboration with the Maldives National University (MNU), is preparing to launch diploma-level training programmes to support this effort. The Minister said ensuring rangers are stationed in every atoll is a top priority and essential to the country’s environmental commitment.

He also referenced the ongoing Endheri Project, a joint initiative between the Ministry of Environment and MNU, which recently concluded a ranger training programme in Laamu Atoll. A total of 17 participants graduated from the course.

The Minister added that once these areas are properly maintained and opened to visitors, they could generate income through eco-tourism – aligning with the Government’s broader strategy to link environmental sustainability with economic opportunity.