The Ministry of Cities, Local Government and Public Works has announced that construction is underway for 30 new local council buildings across the Maldives, marking significant progress in the government's commitment to strengthening local governance.
This ambitious project aims to address the critical need for adequate space in over 100 councils nationwide, with 105 identified as severely affected and slated for new facilities.
The comprehensive initiative is being propelled by a dual funding strategy-55 councils will be built under a contractor finance model, while 50 others will benefit from the grant aid provided by the Chinese government.
Speaking on PSM News' ‘Dhuveli’ programme, the Minister of State for Cities, Local Government and Public Works, Moosa Fathy, affirmed that the project is rapidly advancing in line with the President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s electoral pledge.
"Out of 55 councils, construction has already started in 30 councils and are progressing well. Construction material will be mobilised in nine more islands next week, and work on the remaining 55 councils not yet commenced will begin this November,” he explained.
The contract for these 55 councils, valued at around USD 40.9 million, has been awarded to local construction giant, Rasheed Carpentry and Construction (RCC).
Regarding the 50 councils receiving Chinese funding, the State Minister confirmed that the government is collaborating closely with the Chinese government to secure a contractor.
"The information needed to appoint a contractor has now been provided. A contractor will be appointed, and the work will start very soon," he assured.
State Minister Fathy underscored the pivotal role councils play in implementing the decentralisation system of governance, stressing the necessity of creating conducive environments for their operations – an issue he noted had not been adequately addressed until now.
The new buildings are meticulously designed to include dedicated spaces for councillors, women's development committees, and essential administrative functions, fostering greater efficiency and inclusivity.
This current drive builds upon previous efforts, with 19 councils having been constructed earlier with state funding through the Local Government Authority (LGA).