Stream Foundation and Ooredoo Maldives have announced notable advancements in their partnership aimed at monitoring the Maldives Coral Institute’s coral reef restoration project near Fulhadhoo Island. Established in early 2023, this collaboration has enabled the deployment of sophisticated underwater cameras that deliver near real-time monitoring of the reef’s ecosystem, capturing data on fish species, coral health, and overall biodiversity.
Powered by Ooredoo Maldives’ high-speed connectivity, even in remote marine locations, the system has amassed extensive data since its launch. In 2024 alone, the cameras recorded 15,728 individual fish, averaging 43 sightings per day. The peak daily count occurred on April 20, 2024, when 402 fish were observed, highlighting the richness of the reef’s marine life.
The footage has also documented environmental challenges, including coral bleaching events, alongside promising signs of coral recovery. These observations are critical for understanding the reef’s health and the effects of climate change, providing essential information to guide conservation efforts.
Ooredoo’s ability to provide seamless, uninterrupted internet access to the underwater cameras has been a key factor in the project’s success. This advanced connectivity allows for real-time data transmission, granting researchers, conservationists, and local authorities immediate access to vital information about the marine environment. Such timely insights facilitate faster, more informed conservation responses.
Khalid Al-Hamadi, CEO of Ooredoo Maldives, expressed satisfaction with the partnership’s impact, emphasizing the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability. He noted that leveraging technology to protect marine biodiversity benefits both local communities and the nation’s tourism industry. Al-Hamadi highlighted that Ooredoo’s network capabilities play a crucial role in supporting this important initiative and reaffirmed the belief that technology can empower sustainability.
As the partnership moves into its third year, Ooredoo Maldives, Stream Foundation, and the Maldives Coral Institute are exploring the potential to extend this innovative marine monitoring technology to additional coral reefs and marine ecosystems across the Maldives. This expansion would further enhance conservation efforts by combining advanced connectivity solutions with cutting-edge environmental research.