Malta Youth in Agriculture Foundation
10 Years of Cultivating Change
#DecadeWithMaYA 2014 - 2024
As the MaYA Foundation marks a decade since its establishment, we reflect on the organisation's journey of catalysing change within Malta's agricultural landscape. Through its advocacy and collaborative efforts, MaYA has contributed to heightened awareness and action on environmental stewardship, social cohesion, and governance reforms. From addressing land use challenges to empowering young farmers, the Foundation has played a vital role in elevating the profile of local agriculture and fostering a more inclusive and sustainable future for Malta's farming community.
LAND USE ISSUES
eNGOs WORKING TOWARDS SUSTAINABILITY
PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE
ENVIRONMENTAL
Amidst urban sprawl and a predominant priority for infrastructure projects, agricultural land often found itself relegated to a position of lesser importance in land use considerations.
Civil society operated in silos, lacking cohesion in advocacy and collaboration efforts.
Agriculture and the environment were often seen as conflicting especially in terms of resource management.
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A pivotal shift in land use was primarily spurred by an increased societal consciousness and sensitivity towards the management of public land together with the onset of a national land reform.
Mutual endorsements and sustained support among diverse organisations resonate today, fostering a collaborative ecosystem in civil society advocacy.
It is now widely acknowledged that local growers are regarded as environmental stewards.
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SOCIAL
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Government officials, farmers, and society at large commonly held the belief that there was no interest from young farmers, a notion supported by dwindling numbers in the profession.
Minimal marketing efforts characterised the agri-food sector, particularly from farmers, lacking visibility and outreach.
The fragmentation of civil society often had a diluting impact which conveyed muddling core messages of individual organisations.
FUNDING FOR YOUNG FARMERS
MARKETING OF LOCAL FOOD AND AGRICULTURE
SYNERGY BETWEEN STAKEHOLDERS
The robust implementation and strong uptake of Measure 6.1 sees a surge in young farmer installations, paralleled by an augmented budget allocation.
With heightened agri-food marketing and farmers' social media presence, local products gain prominence, contributing to various sectors, including restaurants earning Michelin stars.
It is now widely acknowledged that local growers are regarded as environmental stewards.
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The COVID crisis served as a wake-up call regarding food security issues and shed light on the vulnerability of farmers to challenges like quarantine regulations.
Pursuing education and employment in the agricultural sector was often stigmatised, viewed unfavourably within societal norms.
Many farmers, particularly the younger generation, refrained from openly discussing their profession, often feeling reticent about it.
Young farmers became more empowered to reimagine their business models, enhance supply chains, and engage in direct sales.
Various initiatives drive change among citizens regarding food and farming, with programs like "Let's Talk Farming" targeting students, and "Agribusiness" at secondary level.
The farming community now exhibits increased empowerment, actively participating in various events and consultations.
COVID-19 CRISIS
EDUCATION
EMPOWERMENT
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GOVERNANCE
Agriculture as a sector was represented by a Parliamentary Secretariat for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, rather than a Ministry
Food fraud was merely a peripheral topic in political discussions, with minimal attention paid to policy changes, and civil society debates often overlooked it.
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Today agriculture boasts a dedicated Ministry, distinct from other sectors, signalling its heightened priority and recognition.
Following the establishment of the Malta Food Agency, concerted efforts were made with the formation of the Food Fraud Task Force.
PRIORITISING LOCAL AGRICULTURE
ACKNOWLEDGING AND TACKLING FOOD FRAUD
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Local food systems often fell short of meeting adequate standards and lacking robust governance. Farmers and breeders frequently faced unfair remuneration, highlighting systemic challenges within these systems.
Young farmers were marginalised, receiving little acknowledgment or representation in public consultations.
MODERNISATION OF FOOD SYSTEMS
BETTER CONSULTATION PROCESSES
Substantial investments have revitalised the public abattoir and Pitkali market, marking a significant stride forward in addressing past deficiencies and bolstering local food systems.
Now, consultations regarding policy and funding are tailored to actively solicit feedback from young farmers, ensuring their voices are heard and needs addressed.
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How to cite:
Malta Youth in Agriculture Foundation. (2024). "10 Years of Cultivating Change." [Insert URL]. Accessed [Insert Date Accessed].