First Batch Departs for Nursery Management Training in China as Part of the 5 Million Tree-Planting Project
The orientation session for the first ten participants of the "Nursery Management Preparatory Program" was held today in Fujian Province, China. This initiative aims to support the development of nurseries established across various regions of the Maldives.
The training program, scheduled from October 27 to November 7, focuses on equipping participants with technical knowledge and practical skills essential for managing plant nurseries.
Under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s "5 Million Tree-Planting Project," the training seeks to enhance the capacity to establish, operate, and maintain nurseries nationwide. This program will provide participants with the management skills necessary for sustainable plant propagation and the effective operation of nurseries developed under the project.
The Maldivian delegation departed for China on October 27 to undergo this specialized training facilitated by agricultural experts in Fujian Province. This initiative is designed to provide technical support for 20 nurseries being established across the Maldives and to bolster the nation’s capacity for seedling production to sustain nationwide tree-planting activities.
This training program coincides with the government’s accelerated efforts to establish nurseries in 20 islands. Under the nursery development grant project, each participating island council receives MVR 500,000 for establishment costs. Each nursery is projected to produce approximately 50,000 plants annually. These facilities are intended to supply plants for reforestation efforts and ensure easy access to saplings for neighboring islands.
In September 2024, agreements were signed with councils from an additional 10 islands under the second phase of the project, following the initial 10 islands where work had already commenced. The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy stated that training for nursery staff is being organized with Chinese assistance to ensure the successful implementation of these projects.
Chinese support for nursery development also includes the establishment of a modern nursery in Hulhumalé Phase 2. The Ministry expects the 55,000-square-foot facility, funded by the Chinese government, to be completed and inaugurated by June 5, 2027.
The ongoing training program in Fujian marks a significant step toward building a pool of technical experts for the Maldives' expanding nursery network and ensuring the sustainability of tree-planting initiatives.
Launched on World Environment Day, June 5, 2024, the "5 Million Tree-Planting Project" is a national initiative led by the President to enhance the Maldives' greenery, preserve indigenous plant species, and strengthen environmental protection.
The strategic investment in island-based nurseries and practical training is aimed at securing a sustainable supply of plants to achieve the national goal of planting five million trees by the end of 2028.