Climate Ministry Launches Vilunveshi Grant Programme to Boost Resilience and Food Security

Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy Ali Shareef has inaugurated the Vilunveshi Grant Programme, aimed at strengthening resilience against the impacts of climate change while promoting food security through environmentally sustainable methods.

According to the ministry, the programme is designed to support resilient innovations and digital tools, while encouraging sustainable income generation alongside environmental protection. It is being implemented by the ministry in collaboration with SME Digital and the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources.

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The programme was launched today during the Climate Change Adaptation Symposium held at Meeruma. It forms part of the Enhancing Climate Resilience and Food Security (ECRFS) project, which is being implemented to safeguard communities and the environment from climate-related risks.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Minister Ali Shareef highlighted the role of private sector participation in building resilience and advancing sustainable development.

Under the programme, grant assistance will be provided across three main themes: climate-resilient farming practices, innovation in digital and climate-related solutions, and value chain development, including the introduction of products to market.

The ministry stated that the first round of funding will be open to individual applicants, with subsequent rounds to include other categories of applicants in addition to individuals.

Although the programme was formally launched today, applications will open on 23 July via the SME Digital portal. The application window will remain open until 150 applications are received, or until 23 August, whichever comes first.

The ministry said the initiative aims to reduce financial barriers to innovation and provide targeted support to individuals, NGOs, young innovators, women, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).