Hanimaadhoo Island Council met with President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, on Sunday morning, and stated that rapid development had been observed in the island with the projects being carried out by the government. The meeting, held at the Barefoot Eco Hotel in Hanimadhoo Island, was also joined by the Hanimaadhoo Women’s Development Committee (WDC).
Speaking at the meeting, Councillors highlighted concerns regarding ongoing developmental efforts and discussed pertinent issues relevant to the needs of residents of the island. They stressed the need to initiate the Hanimaadhoo Airport developmental project at the earliest, noting that the airport is crucial to the development of the region. Delineating the progress gained through government projects over the last few years, the Hanimaadhoo Council discussed further avenues for improvement. They deliberated on several pertinent topics such as the need for better housing, healthcare, road development, transport, utility management, education and social development in Hanimaadhoo Island.
Members of the Hanimaadhoo WDC noted the urgent need for a resident gynaecologist, scanning services and a volleyball court for the women of the island. The committee also shared details of various programmes and future activities.
President Solih addressed the concerns raised by the members of Hanimaadhoo Island Council and WDC, affirming that the International Airport development project would be vital to the advancement of the entire Boduthiladhunmathi region's economy and tourism industry. However, the President said, the council and residents of the island would need to cooperate and provide support for each other if the project is to bear fruit.
President Solih also shared the latest details of the projects being carried out by the government. He said that the government had earmarked a 100-housing unit project on the island to resolve the housing deficit faced by residents, adding that the government plans to include it in the upcoming years’ budget. He further stated that the construction of the 30-bed hospital is now at the pre-bidding phase.
The first couple’s current visit to Hanimaadhoo Island is the final leg of a three-island trip to the north of the country. The President and the First Lady previously visited Kulhudhuffushi City and Kumundhoo Island of South Thiladhunmathi Atoll. Cabinet Ministers, along with senior government officials, are accompanying the President and the First Lady on this trip.
