The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has supplied more than 1,100 saplings to four islands in Shaviyani Atoll under the Government’s Food Security Programme. The initiative is part of efforts to boost local cultivation, reduce reliance on imports, and improve food security across the country.

According to the Ministry, a total of 1,159 saplings were distributed this month to Funadhoo, Lhaimagu, Narudhoo, and Bileiyfahi. The varieties included breadfruit, water apple, moringa, and yam. Distribution was made to both households and offices through island councils.

Breakdown figures show that Funadhoo received 324 saplings, Lhaimagu 378, Narudhoo 254, and Bileiyfahi 203. Earlier in June, 50 breadfruit saplings were also donated to Hanimaadhoo Council in Haa Dhaalu Atoll under the same programme.

Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr Maryam Mariya said island councils had requested the ministry’s support in supplying saplings to strengthen food security in the islands. She added that the ministry’s Hanimaadhoo centre has been providing sufficient plants to meet demand.

The Food Security Programme is one of several measures introduced to strengthen agricultural resilience and address climate-related challenges. The Government has also announced plans to establish an agricultural economic zone, alongside providing technical support to farmers to expand cultivation and reduce dependence on imports.