Domestic Airport in Vihafaru Part of Key Plans Announced by President Muizzu in Noonu Atoll

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced several development projects during his visit to Holhudhoo, Kudafari, and Maalhendhoo yesterday, as part of his ongoing tour of 13 inhabited islands in Noonu Atoll. The projects include a pledge to begin construction of a domestic airport in Vihafaru early next year, along with initiatives targeting infrastructure, education, healthcare, and island jurisdiction. 

According to President Muizzu, work will also start on infrastructure for Holhumeedhoo, the island’s designated extension, alongside plans to build an Islamic Centre. In Kudafari, a science laboratory and six new classrooms will be established to support A-level education. Meanwhile, Maalhendhoo will see coastal protection works and a western jetty project begin in August, with ongoing efforts to bring Tholhendhoo under its administrative boundary.

advertisement

advertisement

advertisement

He departed for the trip on Monday, July 21. He is set to conclude the trip tomorrow. Several cabinet ministers and senior officials from state-owned enterprises are accompanying him. 

Airport Plans and Infrastructure Projects in Holhudhoo

During his visit to Noonu Holhudhoo, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced that construction of a domestic airport in Vihafaru will begin early next year, aiming to improve connectivity for Holhudhoo, Velidhoo, and Fodhdhoo amid growing tourism and economic development. He also confirmed that work will commence next year on infrastructure to operationalise Holhumeedhoo, Holhudhoo’s designated extension, alongside plans to build an Islamic Centre.

Additional projects—set to be contracted in September—include harbour access improvements, land reclamation, health centre expansion, and the construction of futsal and handball courts. The second phase of the island’s road development will feature a new ring road, while the water system project is expected to be completed within two months. A new building for Meyna School will also be constructed under an agreement signed between the Ministry of Education and MTCC.

Advancing Education and Infrastructure in Kudafari

In Kudafari, the President announced that six new classrooms and a science laboratory will be established to support the permanent provision of A-Level education. The project will be financed through the 2026 State Budget.

He further outlined plans to develop a soundproof powerhouse at the existing generator facility and confirmed that the proposed Fitness and Recreation Centre will proceed once the council allocates a suitable plot of land.

The President assured residents that coastal protection works would be implemented in line with the island’s land use plan, prioritising long-term economic resilience and community input.

Maalhendhoo to See Jetty and Land Reclamation Projects

During his visit to Maalhendhoo, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced that coastal protection works and the construction of a western jetty will begin in August, with the jetty design completed and the Environmental Impact Assessment nearing conclusion. He also reaffirmed his commitment to addressing the island’s land shortage through a land reclamation project, set to be included in the 2026 State Budget following consultations.

The President provided an update on the effort to bring Tholhendhoo under Maalhendhoo’s administrative boundary, noting that legal proceedings have delayed the process, and that the Attorney General is reviewing appropriate next steps. He also highlighted plans for laboratory upgrades and road development, underscoring the Government’s commitment to the island’s progress. Earlier in the day, he attended the groundbreaking ceremony for Maalhendhoo’s new Fitness and Recreation Centre.