President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that this administration has begun the implementation of the Disaster Management Act, which has not been executed since its ratification in 2015. The President made this statement in his address delivered on the occasion of this year’s Unity Day.
The official Unity Day function was held in Dhuvaafaru Island of North Maalhosmadulu Atoll this afternoon. The President arrived on the island this morning. The Unity Day is marked in the Maldives to revive the spirit of humanity, kinship and unity displayed by Maldivians in the aftermath of the tragic tsunami of December 26, 2004.
In the President’s speech, he expressed his deep appreciation to all Maldivians, State institutions, local and foreign organisations, and volunteers for their hard work put into mitigate damages caused during the 2004 tsunami. The President also noted the international community’s commendation of the Maldivian community’s laudable unity.
In his speech, President Solih stated that the establishment of the National Disaster Management Authority, the National Disaster Management Council, and the National Disaster Management Steering Committee was underway, as required by the Disaster Management Act, in the effort to reduce the impacts of disasters.
President Solih said that the first draft of the “National Disaster Management Plan” has also been compiled, with proactive measures to be taken to prepare for and respond to disasters. He further said that the “Disaster Management Trust Fund” has been established on December 16, 2018, and assured that the administration will ensure the funds are rightfully utilised.
The President highlighted the administration’s plans to establish basic supply storages on each island to cater to the communities during emergencies. He also said that the administration plans to setup relief mechanisms in each atoll, to assist victims of fires and other tragedies.