Minister Mariya: Ensuring food security is a top priority

Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr. Mariyam Mariya has described ensuring food security as envisioned by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu as a top priority.

According to the Minister, Maldives’ reliance on foreign nations for food products continues to increase. As such, she underscored ensuring food security as a top priority.

In this regard, Minister Mariya said food security is not just related to the economy, but also a way to preserve the nation’s identity and food culture in addition to ensuring a safe and healthy future for future generations.

She stressed that food security is a reality that has a much deeper meaning. She pointed out an example from Maldivian history, citing Maldivians during olden times, had been living self-sufficiently at each island through farming and marine resources available to them.

“The capability to produce one’s own food is the commencement of independence. It is a significant pillar in attaining sustainable development as envisioned by the President,” she said.

Notably, the government’s trading company, State Trading Organization (STO)’s recent announcement on importing coconut to sell at a cheaper price for Ramadan triggered outrage as the need to import a product available in the Maldives is concerning.