Maldives Receives USD 10 Million from World Bank
The government has confirmed the receipt of USD 10 million from the World Bank, following an approval in 2022.
The funding is intended to bolster efforts in promoting competition within the broadband market, improving digital identification and security for online and in-person services, and using digital technologies, data, and analytics to address the growing impacts of climate change.
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A special briefing session on the Digital Maldives for Adaptation, Decentralization, and Diversification (D'MADD) project was held today at NCIT. Funded by a US$10M grant from @WorldBank , the project aims to support key digital transformation initiatives across the Maldives. pic.twitter.com/s9aephV1x6— National Centre for Information Technology (@ncitmv) September 17, 2024
The project, named Digital Maldives for Adaptation, Decentralisation, and Diversification, began last year. Its goals include the development of a digital ID system to enhance the efficiency of government services through modern technology. Additionally, the initiative aims to establish a data storage system for climate and environmental change information, enabling the use of technology to inform policy decisions.
The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology has overseen the project since August 2023. Dr. Mohamed Kinanath, State Minister, outlined that the five-year programme will also focus on strengthening the Communications Authority of Maldives. This will involve upgrading both technology and technical staff to ensure the quality and reliability of internet services in the country.
The official website for the project was launched in this event, by Minister of State for Homeland Security and Technology, Dr. Mohamed Kinaanath. The site will provide comprehensive information on the project, including updates of ongoing activities. pic.twitter.com/WPK2apKG90— National Centre for Information Technology (@ncitmv) September 17, 2024
Dr. Kinanath emphasised the importance of identifying users of government digital services, noting the role of eFaas, a digital ID developed by the National Centre for Information Technology (NCIT), which has been in use since 2022.
Addressing the challenges posed by climate change, Dr. Kinanath explained that environmental shifts are leading to natural disasters, which disrupt data collection and survey processes. However, pilot projects will be launched under the programme to explore potential solutions, with plans to expand successful initiatives across the country.
The Digital Maldives project is seen as a key initiative to modernise the nation’s digital infrastructure while enhancing its resilience to climate change.
