President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to launch a housing project in Foakaidhoo, Shaviyani Atoll, next year, noting that much remains to be done to advance development on the island.
The President made the announcement whilst addressing residents during his ongoing tour of the inhabited islands in Shaviyani Atoll.
Earlier in the day, President Muizzu met with members of the Foakaidhoo Island Council, the Women’s Development Committee, and heads of local institutions to discuss the island’s key development priorities.
During the meeting, council members outlined the primary needs of the island’s residents. They requested the implementation of shoreline protection work, to establish two designated beach areas for residents and tourists, and the development of roads on the island. Council members also emphasised the need for water, sewerage, and electricity services in the newly assigned housing plot area and noted space constraints at the school.
Foakaidhoo School representatives also highlighted that the school accommodates both O-Level and A-Level students and faces a shortage of space for science classes. They noted the absence of a student laboratory and the lack of other essential facilities.
The council further requested the provision of X-ray services and a resident doctor at the island’s health centre. They also emphasised the need for a fitness and recreation centre, as well as a handball court. President Dr Muizzu listened to their concerns and assured participants that the government would give due consideration to their requests.
Later, in a community meeting with residents, the President announced several new development projects linked to major pledges made to residents of Foakaidhoo. He provided an update on projects connected to key pledges made to the community during his Presidential campaign visit.
At the meeting, the President witnessed the signing of an agreement to modernise the island's roads, awarded to the Road Development Corporation (RDC), fulfilling his pledge to address challenges posed by inadequate road infrastructure.
During the visit, the President also witnessed the commencement of several development projects, many of which had been proposed by the Foakaidhoo Island Council at a meeting held in 2024. These included the start of construction on a Waste and Resource Management Centre. Additionally, the development of a beach access area for local and tourist use was assigned to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). In addition to developing beach facilities, MTCC will address erosion issues and undertake shore protection works. As part of the President's visit, physical work also began on a new Police Station and an Islamic Centre.
Speaking on these projects, the President said all projects will be beneficial for the people, and said the projects would commence once the necessary equipment and funds are arranged.
He also confirmed that a resident physician would be appointed to the island's Health Centre, and that the Health Centre development project would be carried out next year. For youth development, the President revealed that a futsal pitch and handball court would be built as promised. He further announced that new premises for the island's school, would be developed next year and included in the 2026 national budget, alongside planned housing schemes.