President Dr Mohamed Muizzu announced the beginning of a new chapter in the development of Fuvahmulah City, stating that today marks the commencement of a journey to realise the aspirations and prosperity of its people. The President delivered these remarks while addressing residents during his visit to the city.
Referring to the signing of 11 new development projects, along with the initiation of five additional projects contributing directly to the city’s progress, President Dr Muizzu assured that all initiatives would be brought to a successful completion.
In this context, the President highlighted solid waste management as the most pressing challenge facing the city, announcing that an island in the region has been designated for WAMCO to handle and dispose of waste accumulated over the years across the four southernmost atolls, including Fuvahmulah City. He added that the project launched today signifies the start of a sustainable, long-term waste management initiative that incorporates environmental considerations and has secured an allocated budget.
Building on the education sector initiatives already underway, the President announced the signing of a project to construct 16 classrooms with laboratory facilities for Fuvahmulaku School. He further assured that the planned development of a Maldives National University (MNU) campus, including accommodation, and a dedicated Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) centre, would move forward efficiently.
In the health sector, the President revealed that a project to develop a tertiary-level hospital in the city is progressing, with physical works under the Saudi Fund expected to begin by May or June next year. In the meantime, additional healthcare services will be introduced, including the newly inaugurated CT scan service launched earlier in the day. He noted that around 90 patients have already benefited from the service since its introduction.
Highlighting housing as one of the Administration’s top priorities, the President announced that the issues surrounding the previously stalled 400-housing unit project have been resolved, and that work has now resumed. As part of his pledge to construct 500 housing units in the city, a contract for 75 new units was signed during the gathering. He added that construction of the remaining units will begin within the next two years and reaffirmed his commitment to delivering a total of 900 housing units during his tenure, including the 400 already contracted.
The President also addressed infrastructure concerns, assuring residents that a comprehensive solution to the city’s harbour challenges is being implemented, with no budgetary limitations impeding progress. He emphasised the importance of city hotels, noting their capacity to deliver substantial benefits, both directly and indirectly, to the community.
On the issue of electricity, the President acknowledged the ongoing challenges and assured that they will soon be resolved. He revealed that FENAKA is working to bring in a new generator before Ramadan to end the recurring power outages, while also outlining broader plans to transition the city to renewable energy.
In closing, the President pledged to advance the city’s sports sector and highlighted several ongoing infrastructure projects. He announced that a new terminal for Fuvahmulah Airport is in the pipeline, with construction expected to commence soon.
