President Dr Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed his administration's commitment to initiating land reclamation works in Hen'badhoo this September, advancing one of the central pledges of his presidential campaign. The declaration, made during his tour of Noonu Atoll, underscored the government's intent to accelerate development initiatives across the region.
Addressing residents during his visit, President Muizzu identified the lagoon reclamation project as Hen'badhoo's most pressing development priority. He underscored plans to reclaim the land as extensively as possible and confirmed the project's inclusion among those slated for early contract awarding.
President Muizzu stated that six batches of reclamation work have already been awarded, adding that Hen'badhoo's project has been designated for the seventh. He confirmed that the contract is expected to be finalised in September, with physical works commencing in November.
In outlining technical considerations, the president remarked, "Upon the completion of the land reclamation, the seawall will be situated in close proximity to the ocean. Consequently, certain considerations must be carefully addressed. By September, the project is scheduled to be awarded to a contractor. Furthermore, practical operations for the seventh batch of projects are set to commence in November. Thus, He'badhoo's land reclamation efforts will similarly commence."
Seven hectares of new land are expected to be added, he said, addressing the need for additional housing and recreational facilities. Among the developments pledged is a football pitch, set to be constructed on the reclaimed land in fulfilment of campaign commitments.
The president presented an infrastructure framework that extends beyond land reclamation. Waste management upgrades and significant enhancements to Hen'badhoo’s health centre are among the planned projects, including lengthening service hours to 16, expanding the building, and increasing staff capacity.
Further additions to the island's amenities include a dedicated children's park and a designated swimming area, each tied to the ongoing reclamation initiative. In addressing the island's residents, President Muizzu affirmed that these efforts are intended to reflect public aspirations.
During engagements with members of the island council, the women's development committee (WDC), and heads of local institutions, the president fielded key concerns affecting Hen'badhoo‘s development agenda. The meetings, held at the Council Secretariat, centred on land reclamation needs, electricity supply challenges, and healthcare staffing limitations.
Requests were also made for school renovations and expansion of the football ground. President Muizzu assured community representatives that these priorities would be acted upon, with oversight and updates provided by cabinet ministers and senior officials.
In addition to consultations, the president took part in ceremonies marking the launch of new infrastructure projects. A foundation stone for Hen'badhoo's fitness and recreation centre was laid by Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu.
The centre forms part of a national plan to introduce similar facilities across all inhabited islands within two years. The new venue is designed to house an indoor gymnasium, aerobics zones, and areas for board games. Senior members of the administration joined the president at the ceremony.
The president also attended the foundation-laying ceremony for a new mosque, led by Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed. Fenaka Corporation has been awarded the contract to build the facility, which will accommodate 500 worshippers and include a classroom and a library.
Air conditioning for the mosque will be powered by a solar energy system, an initiative that speaks to the administration's commitment to sustainability, according to the ministry. With a project value of USD 752,265 and a one-year completion timeline, the new mosque aligns with national efforts to expand access to Islamic education across the islands.
Hen'badhoo is the second destination on President Muizzu's four-day official visit to Noonu Atoll. The tour, which spans 21–24 July, includes stops at Maafaru, Holhudhoo, Lhohi, Kudafari, Ken'dhikulhudhoo, Velidhoo, Manadhoo, Magoodhoo, Maalhendhoo, Miladhoo, Fodhdhoo, and Landhoo.