Gov’t Holds Ground-breaking of Hankede Project

The groundbreaking ceremony for the Hankede Integrated Tourism Development Project in Addu City took place yesterday.

The ceremony, which marked the commencement of this ambitious venture, was officiated by Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusan; Managing Director of Maldives Fund Management Corporation (MFMC), Ahmed Nazim Aboobakur; and a representative from China National Electric Engineering Company (CNEEC), the project contractor.

During the ceremony, Minister Ihusan disclosed that initial discussions for the project had commenced as far back as 2008. He expressed confidence in the swift mobilization of the project’s physical aspects within the next fortnight. Highlighting the anticipated scale of the project, he revealed projections of 20,082 beds and the creation of approximately 1,986 employment opportunities.

Emphasising the unique vision of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for this integrated tourism development, Ihusan underscored its potential to catalyze regional progress upon completion. He also asserted the projected positive impact on Addu City’s economy, particularly in the realms of wholesale and retail ventures, as well as food and beverage businesses.

It is noteworthy that the previous government had engaged CNEEC for the development of Hankede on March 30th, 2023. The project’s scope was further outlined in a presentation by MFMC, which touted its distinctive features and confirmed the development of 1,041 rooms.

In addition to the Hankede project, the previous government had earmarked Kaafu Atoll Gaafarufalhu for integrated or real-estate tourism. This designation was formalized through a presidential decree issued on December 2nd, 2021, underscoring the broader strategic vision for tourism development in the Maldives.