Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr. Mariyam Mariya has officially inaugurated the agricultural plots and plaza developed under the second phase of the Urban Farming initiative.

Titled "Project for Developing Sustainable Agricultural Economy" the project is part of the broader Sustainable Economic Empowerment for the Development of MSMEs (SEEDS) program. It is jointly implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), with generous grant assistance from the Government of Japan.

The initiative aims to promote sustainable agriculture within urban settings, particularly in Hulhumalé. Key goals of the project include equipping local farmers with essential tools and training, fostering environmentally friendly farming practices, and providing structured avenues for farmers to market and sell their produce sustainably.

Speaking at the inauguration, Minister Dr. Mariya emphasized the importance of empowering communities through green initiatives. She noted that projects like this not only contribute to food security and environmental sustainability but also create livelihood opportunities and support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the Maldives.

The launch of this second phase marks continued progress toward building resilient, self-sufficient urban communities in the country.