Hoandedhdhoo Council has decided to launch a major sustainable-agricultural project in a nearby uninhabited island, Kannigillaa, in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. The council announced that bidding opportunities are now internationally open, with a deadline set for November 21.
Speaking about the project, President of Hoandedhdhoo Council Hussain Waarish revealed that the land was being leased for a 30-year period, to facilitate industrial-level agricultural activities. Additionally, he disclosed that poultry farming and mariculture works will also take place on the island. The land, spanning 430,000 square feet, has been leased at a rate of USD 0.039 per square foot, resulting in a total rental income of USD 830,000 over the 30-year lease term.
Furthermore, Waarish stated that the project will create several job opportunities and food security across the region. He noted that earlier this year, there was interest from a party in launching an agricultural initiative on the island, which he believes will bolster support for the current bidding process.