After a decade of fervent requests from its youth, Mandhoo, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll witnessed the official inauguration of its long-awaited futsal pitch on Saturday, with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu presiding over the much-anticipated ceremony.
The completion of modern futsal facility marks a significant victory for the island's young population, who had directly appealed to the President just weeks prior to expedite the long-stalled project.
For ten years, the youth of Mandhoo have yearned for a dedicated futsal facility to call their own. The project, which had seen previous delays and unfinished works, gained crucial momentum following President Dr Muizzu's visit to the island last month. During his visit, Mandhoo residents extended a personal invitation to the President to expedite the completion of the futsal ground and attend the inauguration, ahead of a local futsal tournament scheduled for later this month.
Responding swiftly to the community's plea, the unfinished works of the Mandhoo futsal pitch were handed over to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) by the Ministry of Sports, Fitness and Recreation in early October.
In a remarkable demonstration of efficiency, the ground was fully completed in just 45 days, featuring modern amenities including floodlights, perimeter fencing, and high-quality turf, ensuring usability day and night.
President Dr Muizzu, accompanied by Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef and several cabinet ministers, spent time engaging with the residents at the opening and was presented with a special commemorative plaque by the grateful youth.
To commemorate the inauguration, President Dr Muizzu took part in a friendly futsal match, joined by the Vice President and Cabinet Ministers, securing a 6–2 victory against the team from Mandhoo.
This facility is expected to bring significant social improvements, fostering unity and providing a much-needed recreational outlet for the island's energetic youth.
Further underscoring the government's commitment to sports infrastructure in Mandhoo, a full-sized football ground is also under development on the island, with MTCC again contracted for the construction of its fence, lighting, subbase preparation, and turfing.