Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr Maryam Mariya has officially inaugurated the Vaadhoo Green Farm, a landmark project in Gaafu Dhaalu Vaadhoo, developed in partnership with the UNDP, the Ministry, and the Vaadhoo Association for Future Development (VAFD).

The initiative is a significant step forward in the Maldives’ transition to climate-friendly agriculture and renewable energy, led by island communities. The farm introduces commercial-scale hydroponics powered entirely by renewable energy, incorporating solar-powered irrigation and cooling systems, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable mediums of growth. The facility is designed to produce 600 kilogrammes of cucumber and 400 kilogrammes of edible leaves per cycle.

Minister Dr Mariya emphasised that one of the project’s key objectives is to promote gender equality and island-level economic development. The farm is expected to generate an income of around MVR 80,000 per month, providing a sustainable livelihood for the local community. To support this, 18 women have received advanced training in hydroponics farming, while a further 25 women have been trained in installing and maintaining solar energy systems.

The project is seen as a model for sustainable development, combining innovation in agriculture with community empowerment and environmental stewardship.