Councils of  Maalhendhoo, Kudafari, Holhudhoo, and Landhoo Raise Development Concerns to President Muizzu

Island councils from Maalhendhoo, Kudafari, Holhudhoo, and Landhoo have raised a series of urgent concerns regarding local development to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu yesterday, who is currently touring Noonu Atoll as part of a four-day official visit.

The President’s visit, which includes stops at 13 inhabited islands, involves the launch of key development initiatives and direct engagement with Island Councils, Women’s Development Committees (WDCs), and other local leaders. Several cabinet ministers and senior officials from state-owned enterprises are accompanying him.

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He departed for the trip on Monday, July 21. He is set to conclude the trip tomorrow.

Maalhendhoo Highlights Coastal Erosion and Infrastructure Needs

During his meeting with Maalhendhoo Council and WDC representatives, President Muizzu was briefed on the island’s most pressing issues. These included the urgent need for coastal protection measures and the completion of a surrounding wall for the turf field.

Council members also requested the timely completion of the island’s school building and a transition to a single-session schooling system. Concerns were also raised about limited healthcare infrastructure and land availability. The Council proposed integrating the nearby island of Tholhendhoo into Maalhendhoo’s administrative jurisdiction.

President Muizzu assured attendees that these matters would be reviewed, with cabinet ministers providing further details on the progress of ongoing projects.

Kudafari Calls for Improved Healthcare and Education Facilities

At Kudafari, local leaders met with the President at the school library, raising issues concerning coastal defences, education infrastructure, and healthcare services. In particular, the Council urged the President to expedite the completion of the island’s new health centre building and expand overall health service capacity.

President Muizzu responded by reiterating his administration’s commitment to reviewing these concerns, while cabinet officials shared project updates with the community.

Holhudhoo Seeks Solutions to Housing, Harbour, and Waste Management

In Holhudhoo, development discussions centred around delays in the water network, housing shortages, and the proposed unification of Meyna School into a single campus. Additional priorities included expanding the island’s health centre, improving waste management, and increasing the allocated area for the ongoing harbour project.

The Council also requested the construction of an Islamic Centre or mosque. President Muizzu confirmed that each issue would undergo review, with relevant updates shared by accompanying officials.

Landhoo Emphasises Education, Youth Facilities, and Coastal Protection

At Landhoo, Council representatives emphasised the urgent need to address delays in constructing the new school building, citing limited classroom space. Other concerns included the halted ice plant project and the lack of adequate recreational facilities for young people.

The Council welcomed recent developments, such as the 24-hour operation of the health centre and adjustments to the academic calendar, but stressed the need for a boat docking area and further coastal protection. They also proposed the establishment of a dedicated police station building.

In response, President Muizzu noted that the issues raised would be reviewed by the relevant ministries. He also attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the Landhoo Fitness and Recreation Centre prior to the meeting.