President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is currently on a three-day tour of Alifu Alifu Atoll, meeting councils, Women’s Development Committees, and residents to discuss community priorities, infrastructure needs, and opportunities for economic growth. The visit, which began yesterday, includes stops at eight inhabited islands: Thoddoo, Rasdhoo, Ukulhas, Mathiveri, Bodufolhudhoo, Feridhoo, Maalhos, and Himandhoo.
In Mathiveri, the government announced that Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) will invest in and operate a new airport on the island. Alongside the airport, 26.5 hectares of land will be reclaimed for housing and community use. The President described the project as commercially viable and pledged its completion within two and a half years. Road development is also scheduled to begin next year, while contested land in the Mathiveri Tourism Zone was officially handed over to the Island Council.
At Himandhoo, the President assured that a long-delayed classroom block would be ready before the new academic year, easing overcrowding at the school. The recently opened extension of the Himandhoo Health Centre was also highlighted, with additional laboratory services planned. The President confirmed that coastal protection and harbour upgrades will move forward, while recreational facilities such as a handball court and indoor gym are slated for development this year.
In Maalhos, an agreement was signed to begin a road development project, framed as an improvement for both infrastructure and tourism. Plans were also announced to construct a new health centre to replace the current ageing building. The President pledged to create dedicated beaches for residents and visitors, while shoreline protection works will be included in next year’s budget. The designation of Ranfaru Lagoon as part of the island’s jurisdiction was noted as a potential economic boost, with the government pledging support for community-led initiatives.
At Feridhoo, Maafaru lagoon was designated as a picnic island for residents, with the President noting its potential to generate tourism-related benefits. Agreements were also signed for the extension of the Feridhoo Health Centre and for infrastructure works at the Atoll School. Road construction, harbour improvements, and the completion of the football stadium and fitness facilities were announced as priorities for this year.
The tour continues over the coming days, with the President accompanied by Cabinet Ministers and senior officials from key state-owned enterprises, in what has been framed as an effort to bring governance closer to local communities while advancing development projects with wider economic impact.
