In a compelling address at the inaugural Climate Resilient Agriculture for Food Security in the Maldives Conference, First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed called for the development of a sustainable, climate-smart agricultural sector capable of withstanding natural disasters. The event, held from February 3 to 4, 2025, is a collaborative effort between the Maldives National University (MNU) and the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS).
The First Lady emphasized the necessity of equipping farmers with knowledge and skills in sustainable farming practices to bolster resilience against climate change. She cautioned against the reliance on chemical-laden fertilizers, noting that while they may promote immediate growth, they ultimately impede the adoption of sustainable, eco-friendly agricultural methods.
Highlighting the significance of access to cutting-edge information and technology, Madam Sajidha advocated for empowering local farmers, entrepreneurs, and communities to implement smart and efficient solutions. She pointed to the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in agriculture, suggesting that AI can enhance precision, optimize resource utilization, and increase productivity, thereby fostering a more sustainable and resilient food system.
The First Lady also linked long-term food security to significant health benefits, particularly in the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). She stressed the importance of promoting healthy eating habits and ensuring that food safety standards are not compromised when developing national plans for climate-resilient agriculture in the Maldives.
The conference serves as a crucial platform for policymakers, industry experts, and academics to discuss advancements in climate-resilient agriculture and food security. Participants are engaging in assessments of vulnerabilities, exploring climate-smart solutions, and fostering partnerships aimed at enhancing the nation’s food security and resilience to climate change.
This initiative aligns with the First Lady’s ongoing commitment to food safety and sustainable agriculture. In October 2024, Madam Sajidha visited the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), where she praised their initiatives and expressed interest in collaboration to improve food safety standards in the Maldives.
The conference underscores the Maldives’ dedication to addressing the challenges posed by climate change and ensuring a secure, healthy future for its citizens through sustainable agricultural practices.
