Three state-owned companies have been awarded contracts to develop children's parks in 12 islands.
The projects are part of the government's initiative to establish children's parks in all inhabited islands by the end of next year. Under the agreements, Fenaka Corporation Limited will develop parks in six islands, while the Road Development Corporation (RDC) will oversee parks in two islands. Meanwhile, park development in four islands will be handled by the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC).
Speaking at the awarding ceremony, Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works, Adam Shareef Umar said the parks would be developed in collaboration with island councils, in alignment with the vision of the island’s residents and council.
The Minister reiterated that the government gives priority to working with the councils to strengthen the decentralisation system. This includes actively involving councils in decision-making.
The Minister said that while various projects are being implemented in the islands, priority is given to hiring island-based sub-contracts consisting, ensuring that the work benefits the island.
"In building the council buildings, we wished to hire local sub-contractors so that it would benefit the island. A lot of work has been done in this regard. The park will also be built such that it benefit the islands,” the Minister said.
The two islands handed over to RDC for park construction are Kendhikulhudhoo and Velidhoo of Noonu Atoll. While Fenaka Corporation will be in charge on constructing parks in Feevah of Shaviyani Atoll, Maalhendhoo and Kudafari of Noonu Atoll and Veyvah and Maduvvary Meemu Atoll, MTCC will handle similar projects in Komadhoo of Shaviyani Atoll, Manadhoo and Fodhdhoo of Noonu Atoll and Nilandhoo of Faafu Atoll.
The agreements were signed by Permanent Secretary Dr Fathmath Muna on behalf of the Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works. Managing Director Major Retd Mohamed Najaah signed on behalf of Fenaka Corporation while the Managing Director of MTCC Deputy Commission of Police Retd Ahmed Saudi signed on behalf of MTCC. RDC was represented by its Managing Director Brigadier General Retd Ali Zuhair.
The parks are expected to be completed within six months.