Minister Reveals 57% of Registered Farmers in Maldives Are Women

Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr Aishath Rameela revealed that women make up 57% of registered farmers in the Maldives. The Minister shared this figure at the recent CFS Guidelines on Gender Equality and Women and Girls Empowerment forum, part of the Committee on World Food Security, held in Rome from October 21 to 25.

Minister Rameela outlined the Maldives’ efforts to strengthen women’s roles in agriculture and food security, emphasising their vital contributions to local food production, including tree cultivation and the sale of agricultural products. However, she noted that women in agriculture still face significant challenges, particularly in securing financial support. To address this, the government has earmarked 30% of its Farmers’ Profit Loan Program for women farmers.

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While the government has policies aimed at empowering women, the Minister acknowledged that many women remain hesitant to participate in national discussions or fully access economic opportunities. She underscored the need for greater female engagement to build a more resilient and equitable food system in the Maldives, encouraging women to actively shape and advance the agricultural sector.

The Minister also highlighted the support of international organisations like the UNDP and IFAD, which are helping women access technical and financial resources, thus promoting their leadership in food production.