President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, during an official visit to Kolhufushi in Meemu Atoll as part of a multi-atoll tour, unveiled a series of development initiatives aimed at addressing housing shortages and advancing local infrastructure. The visit forms part of a broader presidential effort to engage directly with councils and communities across all inhabited atolls of the country.
A central focus of the visit was the island’s housing needs. President Muizzu confirmed that 100 housing flats, already constructed on Kolhufushi, will be formally handed over to residents by the end of the year. He stated that the government is giving special priority to ensuring residents can move into these homes as soon as possible. To facilitate this, Fenaka Corporation, the state-owned utility provider, has been tasked with connecting water and sewerage systems to the completed flats, with a deadline set for year-end.
The president also announced a reduction in the pricing of the housing units, from approximately USD 324 to USD 216, aimed at increasing affordability for residents.
Recognising the continued demand for housing, President Muizzu pledged that a project for an additional 100 flats would be incorporated into the national budget for the upcoming year. Construction on the new phase is scheduled to begin next year. “This island is in need of additional housing initiatives,” he said. “I assure the residents that a project for 100 housing flats will be included in the budget for the upcoming year and will be initiated on this island.”
The initiative will also accommodate residents who wish to build on their own private land under the same framework. “This opportunity will also be extended to those who wish to construct a home on their private land under this project's framework,” he assured.
Two additional infrastructure projects were launched during the visit: the construction of a fitness and recreation centre, and the commencement of a road development initiative. The president described the road project as a critical effort linked to both the island’s infrastructure and its economy.
The president convened a formal meeting with the Kolhufushi Island Council, the Women’s Development Committee (WDC), and heads of local institutions at the Council Secretariat.
Council members outlined several priorities, including the urgent need for a new generator to expand the island’s electricity capacity. The president responded by pledging that an additional generator set would be provided. The council also highlighted the need for a well-equipped library and additional space for the local school. In a subsequent address, the president confirmed that new facilities, including a library and a health room, would be established at the school.
Additional concerns raised included the completion of the Fenaka Corporation building and the connection of utilities to the 100 completed flats.
Beyond institutional dialogue, the president invited members of the public to present their concerns directly. Residents requested the government expedite stalled tourism projects in the region. In response, the president stated that he would review the relevant agreements and work to resolve the matter quickly. Community members also called for the development of a football field and a handball court, facilities the president pledged to deliver.
A request for expanded access to higher education was also raised. President Muizzu stated that consultations with relevant government agencies to find a solution are already underway. He assured all participants that the government would take their concerns into account.
The road development initiative for Kolhufushi was formally launched during President Muizzu’s official visit to the island and was officiated by Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure, Dr Abdulla Muththalib.
Valued at USD 6.07 million, the project marks a significant investment in the island’s infrastructure. It has been contracted by the government to the Road Development Corporation (RDC), with work scheduled for completion within 730 days.
Several senior officials were present at the launch, including Ibrahim Naufal, Member of Parliament for Mulah; Ibrahim Nazeem, Managing Director of RDC Limited; and Abdul Aleem, President of the Kolhufushi Council. According to the development plan, the project will include the establishment of modern facilities, such as a comprehensive water drainage system.
President Muizzu’s arrival on Kolhufushi marked a key segment of his official tour of Meemu Atoll, itself part of a wider initiative to visit all 31 inhabited islands across four atolls. The overarching aim is to foster direct dialogue with councils and citizens throughout the country.
Upon docking at Kolhufushi’s harbour, the president was welcomed by a large gathering of residents and senior officials from the island’s institutions. His delegation included cabinet ministers and senior representatives from state-owned enterprises.