Minister of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment Ahmed Mahloof has stated public interest is the reason for the increase in sport-related projects.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Mahloof said he acknowledges the importance of increasing the number of community-based projects. He said the increase in sports-related projects is not a result of a decision made by the ministry. He detailed that the ministry conducts projects that are included in the state budget by the government and the parliament, based on the wishes of the people.
Minister Mahloof said the ministry continues to fund and assist projects and programmes related to community empowerment. He noted that non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have faced challenges in starting similar programmes in the atolls due to the COVID-19 pandemic but that they have recently begun the work. He said 15 NGOs have recently received funding and that more organisations are expected to begin projects related to community empowerment.
The youth minister added that a large part of the ministry's budget is allocated for the development of sports facilities, including the development of 100 sports facilities and 10 youth centres. However, he said these decisions are made based on the wishes of island residents and noted that sports-related projects also provide social benefits.