Minister Rameela Urges Boost in Agricultural Investment

At the 52nd session of the Committee on World Food Security in Rome, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr. Aishath Rameela emphasized the need for increased national investment in marketing agricultural products. Speaking on coordinated policy responses to food crises, she highlighted the Maldives’ commitment to eradicating hunger and ensuring nutritious food aligns with global guidelines.

Dr. Rameela acknowledged the challenges faced due to the Maldives' reliance on imported food, which she deemed unsustainable. She called for a transformation of the country’s food system to promote environmentally friendly agricultural practices.

The minister also pointed out various obstacles, such as climate change effects, limited land availability, and global disruptions caused by conflicts and diseases. She advocated for promoting community gardening initiatives and increasing public awareness. Furthermore, she underscored the necessity of using renewable energy in agriculture and reducing marketing costs for local products.

Finally, Dr. Rameela noted that small island nations like the Maldives require international support to achieve food security and expressed hope that information exchange and technical assistance could address the existing challenges effectively.