President Dr Mohamed Muizzu pledged comprehensive development for the island of Lhohi, Noonu Atoll, assuring residents that all proposed projects will be delivered to their satisfaction. The visit marked the final stop of his tour of Noonu Atoll and introduced new sports infrastructure alongside in-depth consultations with community leaders and residents.
Infrastructure upgrades were front and centre
Addressing residents during a public meeting, President Muizzu underscored his administration's determination to fulfil Lhohi's development requirements. He noted the breadth of proposals outlined by the community and signalled his commitment to careful implementation.
The island's harbour was among the principal undertakings, with the president confirming that community-requested changes to its development would be fully adopted. A slipway will be included to accommodate vessel launching and hauling, he added, describing the feature as essential to long-term utility.
Education and health services drew equal focus
Noting the current limitations at Lhohi School, President Muizzu announced that funding for a new building, equipped with necessary services, would be included in the forthcoming national budget. Construction is slated to begin in January, he said, with completion expected within the year. "We anticipate that within the coming year, a building essential for a permanent solution will be constructed at the school," he stated.
Plans are in motion to expand provision at the Lhohi Health Centre, following requests for laboratory facilities, additional staffing, and increased space, President Muizzu said. The project will be contracted in September, with groundwork expected to begin in November. "The coming year will see the health system of this island fully addressed, reaching a standard that ensures the complete satisfaction of the residents. Furthermore, all initiatives within the education sector will also be thoroughly completed," he elaborated.
Recreational development was also part of the agenda
The president revealed plans to upgrade the existing football field and establish a futsal pitch and volleyball court. He also pledged that Lhohi's swimming area would be developed to meet international standards, irrespective of population size.
Transport connectivity ties into the island's tourism ambitions
President Muizzu said a ring road project is set to proceed in tandem with harbour upgrades, underscoring its importance to the island's emerging guesthouse tourism economy. He affirmed that all submissions made by the council and residents will be reflected in the government's development agenda.
Community leaders presented further priorities
During a separate meeting with the Lhohi Island Council and the Women's Development Committee (WDC), the president reviewed a detailed slate of local priorities. Chief among the council's requests was the proposed inclusion of Goan'bilivaadhoo within Lhohi's jurisdiction. Additional calls included revisions to the harbour channel to enhance accessibility and the integration of a boatyard and slipway to expedite project delivery.
Educational infrastructure remained a focal point, as the council advocated for a multipurpose hall and additional resource rooms, while also pressing for coastal protection and the designation of distinct beach zones for community and tourist use. Proposals included the establishment of a housing loan scheme for islands without such provisions and the elevation of Lhohi's surfing area, previously pledged by the president, to international standards.
Ministers and executives from state-owned companies joined President Muizzu during the meeting. Updates were shared on ongoing initiatives, reinforcing the administration's responsiveness to community-led planning.
A new recreation facility broke ground during the visit
The president presided over the foundation-laying ceremony for Lhohi's fitness and recreation centre, officiated by Abdulla Rafiu, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation. Construction of an outdoor gym commenced in parallel. Both projects form part of the administration's broader commitment to launch fitness centres across all inhabited islands within two years, aiming to strengthen public health through accessible amenities.
The tour concluded with a show of public support
President Muizzu's arrival in Lhohi drew a large crowd at the harbour, where residents extended a warm reception to mark the close of the Noonu Atoll tour. The gathering reflected strong local engagement with the development programme outlined during his visit.