VISIT TO THE SOUTH OF MALDIVES

Partnership Towards a Resilient Reef Ecosystem and Economy
During the mission, Ms. Wignaraja visited Fuvahmulah City, in the south of the Maldives alongside the Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy and the Australian High Commissioner, where they were received by the Mayor of Fuvahmulah City. The visit marked the official launch of the 'Maldives Resilient Reef Ecosystem and Economy for the Future' (Maldives RREEF) Project, funded by the Global Fund for Coral Reefs (GFCR). An MoU was signed between UNDP, the Ministry, and the southern city councils of Addu and Fuvahmulah, solidifying cooperation on the project's implementation. The Maldives RREEF initiative aims to protect vital reef ecosystems while promoting sustainable economic growth for island communities.

Australia pledges $5 mil towards conservation and energy transition
In Fuvahmulah City, Ms. Wignaraja expressed her gratitude to the Australian High Commissioner and the Government of Australia for their generous pledge of AUS$ 5 million over the next five years to support the conservation of the Maldives' natural assets and the expansion of renewable energy initiatives, reinforcing efforts to protect the environment while advancing sustainable development goals in the country.

Local Innovations for Local Solutions
The delegation also toured Fuvahmulah Nature Park and visited an exhibition highlighting innovative local solutions from grantees of the 'Plastic Innovation Challenge' supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme, whose ideas and actions are tackling plastic pollution in the city, and contributing to the circular economy vision of the Fuvahmulah City Council. In addition to initiatives aimed at addressing plastic waste and environmental challenges, the exhibition showcased community-driven innovative solutions and business ideas. Many of these initiatives are potential beneficiaries of the SME development component of the Maldives RREEF Project, underscoring the project's role in fostering sustainable economic opportunities alongside environmental conservation.