Maamaduvvari to Be Returned to Hithaadhoo, President Muizzu Says, as Part of Broader Economic Agenda

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has unveiled a comprehensive development programme for Hithaadhoo in Baa Atoll, pledging to reallocate the Maamaduvvari site, currently under a long-term tourism lease, for the direct economic benefit of the island’s residents.

The president stated that the 30-year agreement governing Maamaduvvari would be legally terminated, citing the site’s historical and economic relevance to Hithaadhoo. Describing its current state as unproductive, he confirmed that the Ministry of Tourism and Planning, in coordination with the Attorney General’s Office, had been instructed to facilitate the transition. He encouraged residents to utilise the reclaimed land to advance local prosperity.

Development agreements signed to address education and land use

The visit also marked the signing of two strategic agreements: one concerning land reclamation and another authorising the construction of a multipurpose hall at Hithaadhoo School. These initiatives, the president said, are intended to address infrastructural limitations and enhance the island’s educational capacity.

Plans for the health sector were similarly outlined by President Muizzu during his address. He noted that the construction of a new building had been contracted to Fenaka Corporation to accommodate expanded services, including laboratory diagnostics, dialysis treatment, and additional clinical space. He further stated that recreational infrastructure would be developed, with a full-scale football field, a volleyball court, a fitness and recreation centre, and an outdoor gym, all slated for initiation within the current year.

The Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has been awarded the contract for a land reclamation project aimed at addressing persistent land scarcity on the island. Valued at approximately USD 8.88 million, the agreement stipulates that MTCC must complete the works within 450 days. The contract was signed by Dr Abdulla Muththalib, Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, on behalf of the government, and by MTCC Managing Director Ahmed Saudee on behalf of the company.

Under the terms of the project, 15 hectares of new land will be reclaimed to support future development. To ensure structural integrity and long-term resilience, the plan includes the construction of 691 metres of revetment along the perimeter and the installation of six groynes, each measuring 25 metres, to mitigate erosion and stabilise the shoreline.

The president stated that road development will proceed in accordance with community preferences. He acknowledged that island-specific needs vary, with some favouring asphalt surfacing, others stone paving, and some prioritising adequate drainage.

Council and community leaders outline infrastructure needs

In a meeting convened at the Secretariat of the Hithaadhoo Council, President Muizzu engaged with members of the Island Council, the Women’s Development Committee (WDC), and heads of local institutions to assess the island’s most pertinent concerns.

Council representatives raised issues including land scarcity, inadequate housing, and the need to extend the harbour channel marker beyond its current boundaries. Challenges in developing local tourism and the urgent requirement for coastal erosion mitigation were also discussed. Youth delegates advocated for the establishment of a dedicated youth centre to serve the growing population.

Additional matters included overcrowding at Hithaadhoo School and staffing shortages at the health centre. The president assured attendees that all concerns would be reviewed comprehensively. Cabinet ministers and senior officials from state-owned enterprises were present, and updates on ongoing development projects were shared.

Banking access expanded with launch of ATM services

The president’s visit also included the inauguration of ATM services in Hithaadhoo, marked by a symbolic transaction. The installation represents the 44th island to receive such services this year under a national initiative to ensure banking accessibility across all inhabited islands. The Bank of Maldives (BML), in partnership with the government, is working to establish ATM services in over 100 islands by year-end.

The Hithaadhoo ATM offers 24-hour access to cash withdrawals, deposits, bill payments, and fund transfers, and supports credit card and loan repayments for both individuals and businesses. A commemorative bank card was presented to the Hithaadhoo Council, received by Council President Abdul Azeez Mohamed. This addition strengthens BML’s nationwide network, which now comprises over 250 ATMs, and reflects the administration’s commitment to decentralised financial services.

Ninth island visit underscores broader atoll engagement

President Muizzu arrived in Hithaadhoo on Wednesday morning, receiving a cordial reception from residents and community leaders. The visit marks the ninth stop on his tour of Baa Atoll, which includes 13 inhabited islands: Kamadhoo, Kudarikilu, Kendhoo, Eydhafushi, Thulhaadhoo, Goidhoo, Fehendhoo, Fulhadhoo, Hithaadhoo, Kihaadhoo, Dhonfanu, Dharavandhoo, and Maalhos.

The tour is designed to facilitate direct engagement with citizens, enabling the president to assess local conditions and consult with councils on the progress and strategic direction of development initiatives.