Modern Agri

Close to 300 hectares are farmed through protected agriculture, with 15,000 farmers participating 80% of whom operate small-scale (1,000-5,000 sq ft) covered structures. However, poor seed selection, insufficient knowledge and a lack of advisory support continue to hinder the sector's expansion. Protected agriculture supports climate resilience as the structures allow for closer monitoring, controlled growing conditions and protection from heavy
rains, winds and pest and disease attacks.

Modern Agri, established in 2019, delivers end-to-end solutions for protected agriculture. In 2023, MDF partnered with Modern Agri to improve smallholder farmers' access to inputs such as seeds and advisory services. MDF worked with Modern Agri to set up a regional hub and model farm in Welimada, serving over 12,000 smallholders in the surrounding area. Inputs sold included seeds, accessories such as grow bags and shade nets, and irrigation systems. MDF also worked with the partner to conduct a study on women's participation in protected agriculture. The study revealed that the sector offered women flexible, low-labour, high-efficiency opportunities to engage in
agriculture alongside household management.