President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, during an official visit to Bodufolhudhoo in Alifu Alifu Atoll, announced a wide-ranging development agenda designed to address the island’s most pressing infrastructural and social needs. Central to the initiative is the construction of 50 housing units, with funding secured in the 2026 national budget and work scheduled to begin within the same year.
The visit formed part of the president’s ongoing tour of inhabited islands in Alifu Alifu Atoll, underscoring his administration’s commitment to balanced regional development across the country.
Housing commitments anchored in 2026 budget
Addressing residents directly, the president confirmed that the housing project, intended to alleviate Bodufolhudhoo’s longstanding shelter shortage, would be commissioned in early 2026. He described the initiative as a durable solution for the island’s population of over 800 and affirmed that meeting Bodufolhudhoo’s development requirements remains a core governmental responsibility.
He also disclosed that four hectares of previously acquired land would be formally transferred by the end of next year, with all preparatory works undertaken in accordance with coastal protection protocols. Dhiggaafalhu, he noted, had already been placed under the jurisdiction of the island council, a move aimed at fostering economic growth through tourism and related ventures.
Public service infrastructure to expand across education and health sectors
The president outlined plans to strengthen public services, beginning with the education sector. A formal agreement has been signed for the construction of a classroom and a multipurpose hall at Bodufolhudhoo School, with work guaranteed to commence within three months. He noted the importance of educational infrastructure and projected that the new facilities would significantly enhance academic standards.
In healthcare, a new building for the Bodufolhudhoo Health Centre is set to be constructed, incorporating expanded services and upgraded amenities. The president assured residents of his administration’s full commitment to completing all necessary health-related developments.
Sports facilities to support broader community engagement
Sporting infrastructure featured prominently in the president’s remarks. Construction of a handball court is expected to begin imminently, and lighting will be installed at the island’s football ground to enable night-time play. The president announced that the fitness and recreation centre is also slated for activation, with all works coordinated closely with contractors.
A groundbreaking ceremony for the handball court was officiated by Abdulla Rafiu, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation. The president noted that the facility would significantly advance sports participation on the island, particularly among women. A futsal field, included in the 2026 budget, is scheduled for construction early next year.
He acknowledged that several fitness and recreation centres across Alifu Alifu Atoll, including Bodufolhudhoo’s, had been found to require repairs despite recent completion. Original contractors will be held accountable for rectifications, and alternative solutions will be pursued where necessary. New centres are being constructed in other locations, with the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) recently assigned to these projects.
Council meeting highlights local priorities
During a meeting at the Bodufolhudhoo Council Secretariat, the president conferred with the island council, the women’s development committee, and heads of local institutions. Council members raised several urgent priorities, including the need for expanded housing, improvements to the sewerage network, the initiation of integrated tourism development, and the designation of a picnic island for community use.
School representatives reiterated the necessity of a multipurpose hall, while the council advocated for the enhancement of the health centre to support a sixteen-hour operational schedule, inclusive of X-ray diagnostic services. The president responded by pledging practical solutions and providing updates on ongoing projects, joined by cabinet ministers and senior officials from state-owned enterprises.
Presidential tour continues across Alifu Alifu Atoll
President Muizzu arrived in Bodufolhudhoo on Wednesday morning, marking the fifth stop in his tour of inhabited islands within Alifu Alifu Atoll. He was received at the harbour by a large contingent of institutional leaders and residents, who extended a warm welcome.
The three-day tour encompasses eight islands, including Thoddoo, Rasdhoo, and Ukulhas, and forms part of a nationwide initiative to engage with councils across all atolls, islands, and cities. The president was accompanied by several ministers and senior officials from various government bodies.