Minister of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works Adam Shareef Umar has stated that work is underway to cluster the atolls and understand the situation in the islands. He made the remark at a workshop held in Thulusdhoo, Kaafu Atoll, by the Local Government Authority (LGA) on strengthening the decentralization system.
At the workshop, Minister Adam Shareef said discussions have been held to empower and strengthen local councils in Male' City and Addu City. He also said his ministry is meeting with councils in the atolls to identify and solve their problems. In addition, he said the ministry has begun a thorough and systematic process of identifying the various issues by clustering the atolls and gathering information on the situation in the islands within the clusters.
Furthermore, Minister Adam Shareef highlighted the decisions made by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to strengthen the decentralization system, including the creation of a dedicated ministry. He also highlighted the decision to grant island councils the ability to incorporate uninhabited islands and lagoons in their atolls under their jurisdiction. He also noted the decision to transfer of municipal services in Hulhumale' to the Male' City Council.
The LGA workshop was held to discuss issues faced by local councils, challenges in strengthening the decentralization system, and increasing awareness and training on decentralisation. The workshop was attended by officials from various government ministries and state institutions.