President Muizzu Begins Four-Day Visit to Shaviyani Atoll, Pledges Nationwide Medical Testing Facilities by 2026

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that every inhabited island in the Maldives will have the capacity to conduct medical tests in full compliance with Ministry of Health standards by the end of 2026. He made the announcement during his visit to Noomaraa, the first stop on his four-day tour of the inhabited islands in Shaviyani Atoll, which began today.

During the trip, the President will meet with Island Councils and Women’s Development Committees (WDCs) to discuss local development needs and priorities. He will also engage directly with island communities to hear their concerns and assess ongoing projects.

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He said the Government’s goal is to enhance the healthcare sector by developing infrastructure and expanding human resources. As part of this plan, a laboratory will be established on Noomaraa.

The President further assured that all development projects in Noomaraa would be implemented efficiently and in line with the community’s priorities. He confirmed that the island’s harbour project will include a docking area and a designated swimming zone, while the water and sewerage works will proceed as planned.

President Muizzu revealed that the 2026 national budget will include allocations for several new projects on Noomaraa, including the development of a modern football ground, a volleyball court, and a multipurpose hall for the school.

He added that the relocation of the island’s powerhouse will be completed before next Ramadan, with government support extended to Fenaka Corporation to ensure timely completion. The President also said measures would be taken to address issues related to prolonged RTL ferry routes within the atoll.

This marks President Muizzu’s first official visit to Noomaraa since assuming office. However, he had previously met with members of the Noomaraa Council and WDC during a trip to Shaviyani  Atoll in February 2024, where residents raised concerns about the lack of sports facilities and the absence of a police post—issues now being addressed.

During the current visit, the President observed the commencement of several infrastructure projects on the island, including the construction of the Noomaraa Fitness and Recreation Centre, a new police station, a mosque, and the new building for the Noomaraa Council Secretariat.

President Muizzu also met with the Noomaraa Island Council, WDC, and heads of local institutions at the Council Secretariat to discuss the island’s development priorities. Council members requested coastline protection, the development of a beach area and docking zone, the upgrading of main roads, and a revised RTL route. They also highlighted the need for a library, a multipurpose school hall, and improved laboratory services.

In addition to Noomaraa, President Muizzu will be visiting 14 islands on this trip. They are Kanditheemu, Noomaraa, Goidhoo, Feevah, Bileiyfahi, Foakaidhoo, Milandhoo, Narudhoo, Maroshi, Lhaimagu, Funadhoo, Komandoo, and Maalhendhoo.