The Maldives Agribusiness Programme (MAP) has appointed and trained senior farmers from several islands to oversee greenhouse farming initiatives and ensure best practices are followed.
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, these senior farmers will play a key role in guiding communities as greenhouse projects expand across the atolls. Their primary responsibility is to make sure that crop cultivation in MAP-established greenhouses, as well as those managed by Island Farmer Forum (IFF) members, adhere to the farming standards introduced under the programme.
Officials said the senior farmers will be tasked with monitoring daily operations in line with the crop calendar prepared by MAP. They will also use checklists to evaluate progress, identify shortcomings, recommend improvements, and support IFF members in consultation with the project team and the ministry’s extension staff.
At least two IFF members will be recruited from each island where greenhouses are already established or planned. The ministry confirmed that senior farmers are being recruited from Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, and Shaviyani atolls, including islands such as Molhadhoo, Kelaa, Uligam, Kumundhoo, Vaikaradhoo, Kanditheemu, Goidhoo, and Feydhoo, among others.
The ministry outlined several factors considered in the selection process, including time commitment, involvement in greenhouse planning and management, technical know-how, and the ability to motivate other farmers. Senior farmers will be chosen in consultation with IFF members and are expected to take on greater responsibilities than the extension link farmers already present on each island.
During island visits, ministry officials will meet with IFF members to explain the role. Volunteers will then be invited to come forward. In cases where more than two candidates express interest, a secret ballot will be held among members to decide. If no volunteers step up, a respected participant may be appointed with community consensus.
Senior farmers have already completed training programmes at the Hanimaadhoo Agricultural Centre and other facilities. Training covered areas such as soil and planting media, plant biology, nutrients, pest and disease control, as well as practical modules on crop planning, record keeping, leadership, teamwork, and accounting.
Through initiatives like these, MAP aims to introduce innovative farming techniques to strengthen the Maldives’ agriculture sector and promote self-sufficiency across island communities.
