President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has pledged to resolve the long-standing challenges relating to water and sanitation services in Dhonfanu, Baa Atoll. He made the statement while addressing the residents of Dhonfanu during a visit to the island, as part of his ongoing tour to inhabited islands of Baa Atoll.
Meeting with Community Leaders
Earlier in the day, the President met with members of the Dhonfanu Island Council, the Women’s Development Committee (WDC), and heads of local institutions to discuss the island’s most pressing development priorities. The meeting was held at Dhonfanu School.
The Council raised concerns over delays in completing the water and sewerage projects, the development of the Dhonfanu football field, and matters pertaining to the proposed concept for a land reclamation project. They also emphasised the need for a new council building to address the space constraints of the current office.
It was agreed during the meeting to move forward with upgrading the island’s school, with the project expected to significantly alleviate the existing space limitations. The Council further highlighted challenges faced by residents due to the shortage of nurses at the island’s health centre.
The President assured that the concerns raised would be thoroughly reviewed. He also provided updates on ongoing development projects, accompanied by Cabinet Ministers and senior officials from State-Owned Enterprises.
Development Projects for Dhonfanu
Addressing Dhonfanu residents, the President identified water and sewage services as the island’s most pressing concerns. He noted that a key obstacle for the company tasked with the project had been a shortage of staff. He confirmed that Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC) has now been instructed to source personnel, either locally or from overseas, and to commence the project without delay. He assured residents that work would begin at the earliest opportunity and be completed swiftly. He pledged to begin a road development project once the water and sewerage project reaches completion.
Signing of Key Development Agreements
The President also witnessed two agreements signed as part of his visit to Dhonfanu. These include agreements on the expansion of Dhonfanu School, as well as a land reclamation and shore protection project.
The land reclamation and shore protection project was awarded to Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). The project agreement was signed on behalf of the Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure by its Minister Dr Abdulla Muththalib, while MTCC was represented by its Managing Director, Ahmed Saudi.
The scope of the project includes the reclamation of an area of 13 hectares, the construction of a 1,229-metre revetment, and a 123-metre breakwater. The land reclamation project will add 13 hectares the island to address existing space constraints, expanding harbour capacity and a designated swimming area for the residents.
The shore protection component includes two channel groynes of 25-metres, a 15-metre channel groyne and a 42-metre jetty at the island’s harbour. The project was awarded to MTCC for a value of USD 13.8 million, to be completed over 720 days.
The school expansion project was awarded to the Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC), with the Minister of Education, Dr Ismail Shafeeu signing the agreement on behalf of the government. FDC was represented by its Managing Director, Hamdhaan Shakeel.
The school expansion project includes the construction of six classrooms for Dhonfanu School, a multipurpose hall, a library, and a science laboratory.
President Dr Muizzu confirmed that both projects will commence this year. He added that the completion of these projects would see the fulfilment of many of his pledges for the island in addition to deliver significant benefits for the residents.
Sports Development
On sports development, the President highlighted that the island’s football field will be completed alongside a futsal and handball court. Additionally, he confirmed that the construction of a volleyball court and a Fitness and Recreation Centre will be included in the budget for the upcoming year.
ATM establishment
The President also officially inaugurated the Bank of Maldives Automated Teller Machine (ATM) service in Dhonfanu as part of the visit.
Presidential Tour Continues Across Baa Atoll
Dhonfanu marked the eleventh stop on President Muizzu’s tour of Baa Atoll. The tour, running from 11 to 14 August, includes visits to 13 inhabited islands: Kamadhoo, Kudarikilu, Kendhoo, Eydhafushi, Thulhaadhoo, Goidhoo, Fehendhoo, Fulhadhoo, Hithaadhoo, Kihaadhoo, Dhonfanu, Dharavandhoo, and Maalhos.
The tour is aimed at engaging directly with citizens, assessing local conditions, and consulting island councils on development priorities to ensure government initiatives remain responsive to community needs.