Highlights from President’s South Ari Atoll Visit

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu undertook a two-day official visit to South Ari Atoll over the weekend, meeting with councils and Women’s Development Committees (WDCs) across several islands, where he addressed pressing concerns and outlined the government’s development plans.

The tour, part of an ongoing visits to atolls near the capital Male’, covered key islands, including Mahibadhoo, Dhangethi, Mandhoo, and Omadhoo, and provided an opportunity for the administration to engage directly with local representatives.

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Key Announcements and Highlights

Infrastructure and Development Projects

In meetings with island councils, the President emphasised the government’s commitment to addressing longstanding development challenges.

• Dhangethi: Dr Muizzu pledged to initiate work on harbour improvements and land reclamation next year, addressing housing shortages and school infrastructure. He also announced plans for a cultural centre, responding to residents’ concerns.
• Mahibadhoo: The government plans to commence the construction of 100 housing units and develop the island as an urban hub. Land reclamation and a master plan for Maafaru lagoon were also discussed, with a focus on inclusive urban development.
• Maamigili: A long-awaited hospital project is set to begin this year, alongside harbour and road development initiatives.

Coastal Protection and Transport

Coastal erosion, a recurring issue raised by councils, will be addressed with measures planned for Omadhoo and other islands. The administration also reaffirmed its commitment to the Raajje Transport Link (RTL) initiative to enhance connectivity in the atoll.

Support for Women’s Development Committees

Recognising the financial challenges faced by WDCs, President Muizzu announced that Ramadan allowances for members will commence next year. Proposed amendments to the Decentralisation Act and Employment Act aim to provide WDCs with improved financial security and access to support schemes.

Collaborative Development Approach

Throughout the tour, the President highlighted the administration’s policy of engaging communities in the decision-making process. In Dhangethi, he assured residents that their input would shape harbour redevelopment, while in Mahibadhoo, the council was tasked with consulting the public to develop a comprehensive plan for the Maafaru lagoon.

Addressing Immediate Needs

Key concerns across the islands included:

• Education and Health Services: Upgrading school facilities and health centres in Mandhoo, Omadhoo, and Hangnaameedhoo.
• Recreation and Cultural Preservation: Calls for sports infrastructure and initiatives to safeguard local heritage, such as Fenfushi’s volley court and Hangnaameedhoo’s cultural preservation projects.
• Waste Management: Investment in modern facilities for islands like Kun’burudhoo and Hangnaameedhoo.

The visit highlights President Muizzu’s efforts to bolster support for his administration’s policies in the neighbouring atolls. In last year’s presidential election, Muizzu won by a margin in South Ari Atoll, securing 51 per cent of the votes over his opponent, former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Muizzu won in only four of the ten islands in the atoll, highlighting the need to strengthen his support base in the region.