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Fainu donates watermelons to a quarantine facility

Rae Munavvar
29 April 2020, MVT 15:01
Fainu's farmers collect watermelons after their harvest. PHOTO: MIHAARU
Rae Munavvar
29 April 2020, MVT 15:01

Local news Fainu Online revealed on Tuesday, that the farmers of Fainu, Raa Atoll donated half a ton of watermelons from their harvest, to those quarantined at Royal Island Resort.

Royal Island Resort was converted to a quarantine facility mid-March and according to the regional news outlet, is currently housing 200 people.

Fainu stands at a distance of roughly 34 kilometres from Royal Island Resort which is located in Baa Atoll, adjacent to Raa Atoll. It is the closest such facility to the island.

According to Fainu Online, of the various farmers operating the 84 plots leased to produce watermelon in time for the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, all chose to partake in the food donation initiative.

Thirst-quenching watermelons are of special significance to the island nation's Muslim population and is a staple in most households during the month of Ramadan.

The purpose of the donation, as per one of its leading forces, was to provide encouragement and support to those placed in isolation, away from family and friends during this time, as well as to show appreciation for those working tirelessly on the frontlines to take care of patients and the facilities.

Reportedly, the arrangements for transporting the melons was undertaken by MNDF, in collaboration with Royal Island Resort.

The decision by Fainu farmers comes at a time when the world's economy is struggling and there have been setbacks in the transportation of various goods owing to the global pandemic COVID-19. One of the greatest concern amid this health crisis for Maldives, in particular, arises due to the country's heavy dependence on imports for food supply.

In response to such concerns, a number of islands like Fainu that are known for fruit, vegetable and grain production, such as Thoddoo in Alif Alif Atoll, Meedhoo in Addu Atoll, Kurinbee in Haa Dhaalu Atoll and Maamigili in Alif Dhaalu Atoll are also taking steps to aid agricultural work and further strengthen food security in terms of the island's respective community, surrounding atoll and the country as well.

At present, a total of 1,271 persons are placed in quarantine across Maldives. Of these, 233 are active cases, from a total of 250 that were confirmed positive for COVID19. The country records 17 recoveries, thus far.

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