President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has revealed the administration plans to re-prioritise funds on other essential requirements after establishing water and sewerage networks on all inhabited islands.
Speaking at the ceremony held to celebrate the 27th anniversary of the Male’ Water and Sewerage Company Limited (MWSC), President Solih noted the achievements made under his administration and recalled that 70% of the country lacked proper drinking water and sewerage networks when the administration took office. He highlighted his pledge to establish water and sewerage networks on all inhabited islands during his term and said that it will bring significant improvements to the quality of life.
In this regard, President Solih said that clean drinking water will lower the risk of waterborne diseases and lead to healthier lives while simultaneously resolving drinking water shortages. He detailed the administration has been establishing water and sewerage networks in the atolls and that MWSC alone has been carrying out such projects in 31 islands. He said establishing water and sewerage networks in all inhabited islands will allow the administration to re-prioritise funds to focus on other essential requirements in 2024.
Additionally, President Solih cited the increasing concerns over persistent environmental issues and emphasised the importance of seeking methods of utilising renewable energy sources to harvest water. He added the administration’s water and sewerage network projects would be conducted in an environment-friendly manner and that USD54 million from the USD97 million earmarked in the state budget this year for environmental protection is utilised to develop water and sewerage networks.
At the ceremony, President Solih presented awards to the recipients of the Chairman’s Award for Excellency, and Vice President Faisal Naseem gave presented awards to the recipients of the Unique Performance Award.