President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has pledged to allow the revenue generated from protected areas such as the Baa Atolls Biosphere Reserve to go to the locals.
At a campaign event in Maalhos, Baa Atoll, President Solih highlighted the government's decision to allow the local council to receive revenue from biosphere reserves under their jurisdiction. He also emphasised that the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve was established 10 years ago and said the government has made the decision to maintain the reserve for 10 more years.
Additionally, President Solih said that the government has designated 33 areas as protected areas and that the aim is to allow the revenue from the areas to go toward the local councils in his second term. He highlighted the importance of maintaining the protected areas in a way that benefits the atolls and the country as a whole.
Furthermore, President Solih pledged to develop a city hotel for tourists in Maalhos, noting its close proximity to the Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve. He also pledged to develop a picnic island, a new health centre, a mosque, a futsal, and a football ground, and develop the main roads on the island.