President Dr Mohamed Muizzu visited several islands in Vaavu and Faafu atolls yesterday, where he outlined ongoing and planned development projects and signed agreements with local councils.
In Vaavu Keyodhoo, the President said a land reclamation project will begin early next year, with funds included in the upcoming state budget. Agreements were also signed for a new health centre with a 20-bed capacity and a four-storey school building. He noted that the new facilities are expected to address current space and electricity challenges. Plans were also announced to install a dollar-denominated ATM by March.
In Faafu Bileiydhoo, harbour expansion and land reclamation were highlighted as priority projects, with the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) assigned to carry out the work. Budget allocations are expected in the coming year. Groundbreaking ceremonies were also held for new premises for the Police Station and Health Centre, as well as a Fitness and Recreation Centre.
On Faafu Feeali, the President said the stalled land reclamation project will resume once rock boulders are delivered, with 15 hectares planned for reclamation. Agreements were signed for harbour upgrades, a jetty, a mosque, and a futsal ground. A new Police Station project was launched, and Bank of Maldives introduced ATM services on the island.
At Faafu Nilandhoo, the President confirmed that the airport development will be completed within 30 months, with the runway extended to 1,800 metres under a revised scope of land reclamation. He added that the government intends to proceed with a series of related projects, including road development, sewerage and water supply systems, housing, and healthcare facilities. A canning factory and fuel storage tanks are also among the initiatives linked to the island’s designation as an Urban Centre.
He further stated that Women’s Development Committees (WDCs) will receive 10 per cent of council budgets from next year, an increase from the current five per cent.
The President said that the government intends to continue consultations with island councils and expects a second round of meetings nationwide to be completed by November.
