News Stories from the local side of life that matter us

1. Nurturing Mango Farms: A Novel Initiative Takes Root in Utheemu Island

The Ministry of Agriculture has embarked on an innovative endeavor to establish thriving mango #farms across the nation's islands, marking a significant step towards agricultural self-sufficiency. The first 40 mango saplings were planted in Utheemu, one of our favourite historical islands in the far north. The program, set to yield its first harvest in 3-4 years, resonates as a crucial stride towards #foodsecurity and #sustainability. While the initiative is currently initiated on Utheemu Island, expansion plans are already set in motion, with more saplings scheduled for October and widespread plantations anticipated across multiple islands.

1. Empowering Farmers: Ministry Launches Dhanduveriya Website for Agricultural Knowledge Sharing

Staying on the theme of farming and #agriculture, a new digital era dawns for Maldivian farmers with the official inauguration of the 'Dhanduveriya' website by the Ministry of Fisheries, Marine Resources, and Agriculture. The website aims to be an invaluable resource hub for farmers, offering a wealth of essential agricultural information and serve as an #educational platform, offering comprehensive insights into diverse wheat, fruit, and vegetable cultivation techniques, along with strategies for managing crop diseases.

1. Sri Lanka gifts 50,000 palm trees to the Maldives

The Ministry of Fisheries, Marine Resources, and Agriculture announced this initiative to combat the coconut scarcity issue faced by the #Maldives, due in part to the growing #tourism sector. The palm trees are estimated to mature in two-and-a-half years and produce around 40 #coconuts per year. As these trees take root and flourish, they will not only contribute to the #local economy but also enhance the tropical landscape, ensuring a sustainable future for both countries.

1. Discovering Artistry: Mariyam Layaal's Ballpoint Creations Shine at 'Unveiling Visions 2023'

Among the captivating artworks showcased at the recent 'Unveiling Visions 2023' exhibition that we attended at the National Art Gallery, Mariyam Layaal's 'Hukuru Miskiy' stood out. Layaal's dedication to her craft shines through in the intricate details of her ballpoint masterpiece, which took 100 hours to complete. Layaal's artwork not only captures the architectural beauty of 'Hukuru Miskiy', a symbol of the Maldives' rich #heritage, but also serves as a bridge connecting the past with the present. Through her art, she aims to preserve and share the country's historical narratives.

1. A journalist's memoir of the untold Maldives

In the autumn of 2011, the postman-turned-journalist Daniel Bosley embarked on an unexpected adventure which started as an internship in London’s Maldives High Commission – the diplomatic mission of the Indian Ocean tourism hotspot. Little did he know that he would soon set off on an odyssey through an imperilled island nation undergoing one of the most tumultuous periods in its history.

1. Urbanco and Ministry of Tourism Collaborate for Tourist Beach Area.

While locals in Hulhumale, a residential haven within Greater Male, are able to enjoy the current public beach, visitors lacked a dedicated spot. Urbanco and the Ministry of Tourism have joined forces to craft a dedicated beach area. This initiative, promises to provide essential amenities for tourists, such as lifeguards, restrooms, and showers.

Thank you for taking the time to read our news round up, we hope it provided you an insight to our world.

The stories we tell literally make the world. If you want to change the world, you need to change your story. - Michael Margolis