#Tech4Nature #Maldives #Male #Whale Shark

Maldives Launches Tech4Nature Initiative to Protect Whale Sharks

On February 10, 2026, a groundbreaking initiative was officially launched in the Maldives, called Tech4Nature. This project is a collaborative effort led by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Ministry of Tourism and Environment of the Maldives, and Huawei. Its primary objective is to enhance the management of the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA), which is not only the largest of its kind in the Maldives but also serves as a vital habitat for the world's whale shark population, attracting visitors year-round.

The approach taken by Tech4Nature involves utilizing cutting-edge monitoring technologies and real-time communication tools to effectively safeguard this vulnerable marine species amidst various socio-economic pressures that come with being a premier global tourist destination. Given SAMPA's vastness and multiple access points, traditional monitoring methods often fall short; thus, this initiative responds to those challenges by equipping local guardians and conservationists with high-tech observational and reporting tools.

The integration of enhanced data collection and communication capabilities will significantly improve patrol efficiency, track interactions between tourists and the protected species, and create a data-driven framework that aligns with SAMPA's goals of qualifying for the IUCN Green List. This elevated operational capacity will ensure transparency and measurable outcomes in conservation efforts while also supporting the livelihoods of local communities that depend on a healthy marine ecosystem.

Tech4Nature is a part of Huawei’s broader TECH4ALL digital inclusion program, which was initiated in 2020. The project exemplifies how modern technology can support effective and responsible nature conservation practices. Its inauguration took place during the prestigious closing ceremony of the Maldives Protected Areas Forum 2026.

This initiative marks the first Tech4Nature project in the Maldives and fits into a wider global agenda aimed at scaling up the application of digital solutions in environmental protection. At SAMPA, the project aims to strike a balance between tourism and environmental conservation by streamlining visitor management, increasing compliance with regulations, and fostering data-informed decision-making.

During its implementation phase, a specialized team of SAMPA guardians will receive the necessary monitoring and communication equipment to enhance their patrols and enforce regulations on-site. This will not only allow for swift responses to hazardous or non-compliant activities but will also improve visitor safety and mitigate harmful interactions with whale sharks. Additionally, enhanced monitoring is expected to boost overall compliance with conservation regulations and promote more sustainable tourism practices aligned with SAMPA's management and protection objectives.

Dr. Dindo Campilan, IUCN’s Regional Director for Asia and Director for Oceania, stated, “Effective nature protection begins with equipping guardians with the necessary tools for ongoing in-field monitoring, which is foundational for better ecosystem management and institutional governance. This is the first practical step to address current operational gaps while adhering to the IUCN Green List standard, ensuring that SAMPA retains its unique biodiversity and the local livelihoods that rely on it.”

Parallel to field actions, training will be conducted for SAMPA guardians concerning the IUCN Green List standard—a globally recognized benchmark for effective, equitable, and well-managed conservation. A preliminary assessment of SAMPA against the Green List will be carried out, providing organized frameworks to identify strengths, gaps, and priority actions for improved management.

Thoriq Ibrahim, the Minister of Tourism and Environment, emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to enhancing conservation efforts and strengthening institutional and management mechanisms for protected areas. “It is critical for all of us to strive toward this goal, guided by a shared vision and co-responsibility,” he remarked.

Zhang Jinze, General Manager of Huawei Sri Lanka, noted, “As demonstrated by the successful outcomes of Tech4Nature projects since 2020, innovative technological solutions can aid in better understanding and mitigating the threats to biodiversity and ecosystems, including marine systems. Central to the global Tech4Nature partnership is the engagement of local partners and communities in the planning and execution of projects to ensure the longevity of solutions.”

Since its inception, the Tech4Nature initiative has supported 11 main and subsidiary projects globally, providing tailored digital solutions to a variety of conservation challenges ranging from coral reef monitoring to wildlife protection and ecosystem restoration.