Male’ City Council Signs Agreement to Construct Cat Shelter in Hulhumale’

Male’ City Council and the Animal Welfare Ministry have reached an agreement to address the issue of the burgeoning stray cat population in the greater Male’ area. 

The accord, formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on Thursday, entails the establishment of a temporary cat shelter in Hulhumale’.

The MoU signing ceremony saw the participation of Male’ City Mayor Adam Azim and State Minister Hussain Ismail, representing their respective entities.

As outlined by the Animal Welfare Ministry, the shelter is slated to occupy a 5,000 square feet area in Farukolhufushi. This initiative aims to tackle the pressing challenge posed by stray cats roaming the streets of the capital city.

Mayor Azim underscored the urgency of the situation, estimating the current stray cat population in Male’ to be around 3,000. He cautioned that without intervention, this figure could triple by the year’s end.

Expressing gratitude for the government’s collaborative efforts, Azim emphasised the importance of proactive measures in curbing the stray animal population.

In response, State Minister Ismail shed light on the government’s broader vision for the project. He outlined plans to transition the temporary shelter into a comprehensive pet care facility within a timeline of 12 to 18 months.

Ismail elaborated on the envisioned facilities, which include cat cafes or hotels, veterinary clinics, and retail stalls. This strategic approach aims to not only address immediate concerns but also provide sustainable solutions for animal welfare in the region.

The signing of the MoU marks a significant step forward in the collective endeavour to promote responsible pet ownership and ensure the well-being of stray animals in the Maldivian capital.