The contract for the construction of an elderly community centre in Funadhoo, Shaviyani Atoll has been awarded to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC).
The agreement was signed during a ceremony held at the Ministry of Health, Family and Welfare. Signing on behalf of the ministry was State Minister Ibrahim Ismail Ali, while MTCC Deputy Managing Director Ahmed Mubeen signed on behalf of the company.
Under the project, a two-storey facility with a capacity to accommodate 40 residents will be constructed. The development will include healthcare service areas, administrative offices and other facilities required to provide essential services. Recreational spaces will also be incorporated into the complex.
The project has been awarded to MTCC at a cost of USD 2.42 million and is scheduled for completion within 360 days.
Funadhoo has a population of 4,186. The government said the completion of the elderly community centre will enable senior citizens on the island to access healthcare services while remaining in their community, improving their wellbeing and generating broader social benefits for the island.
Ensuring the safety and welfare of senior citizens and enhancing their role within society are among the key policy priorities of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The government has decided to establish elderly community centres in various regions across the Maldives.
In addition to the Greater Male' Region, plans are underway this year to develop senior citizens’ centres in Laamu Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll, Raa Atoll and Shaviyani Atoll. These centres will be operated by the respective island councils, with the Health Ministry providing the necessary support for their activities and programmes.