Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works Adam Shareef Umar has disclosed that four island councils have expressed interest in acquiring uninhabited islands. He stated that four councils have submitted following the government’s decision to allocate uninhabited islands to councils for economic activities.
Adam Shareef disclosed that the island councils of Inguraidhoo, Raa Atoll, Kudahuvadhoo, Dhaalu Atoll, Maavashu, Laamu Atoll and the Atoll Council of Meemu Atoll submitted their proposals to acquire islands for economic development. He noted that the proposals would be forwarded to the President’s Office upon completion of the technical work.
Urging all the councils to use the opportunity provided by the government Adam Shareef noted that availability of the islands for 25 years is essential to empower councils. He also stated that will provide opportunities for youth and make way for the development of industrial activities.
Earlier this year, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu pledged to would make it easier for councils to obtain permits to operate income-generating businesses. He stated that the administration aims to make all the islands and the island communities self-reliant and self-sufficient. As such, he announced that uninhabited islands will be leased to the councils for economic activities. The islands will be leased for a period of 10 to 25 years.