President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, making the first official visit to Kamadhoo by a sitting head of state in decades, pledged on Monday to address entrenched development gaps and fast-track infrastructure projects long sought by residents. The visit, widely regarded as historic, signalled a renewed governmental commitment to integrating Kamadhoo into national development frameworks and responding to longstanding local concerns.
Speaking before a large gathering, the president stated that Kamadhoo's marginalisation within Baa Atoll's development agenda would be rectified. He committed to eliminating discriminatory practices and accelerating community-requested initiatives. Among the undertakings announced was the signing of an agreement for the construction of a new school building, intended to resolve space constraints and improve educational facilities.
The government signed an agreement to construct a new building for Kamadhoo School, in an effort to address longstanding space constraints at the institution. The project, valued at USD 350,454.63, was awarded to the Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation and formalised as part of President Muizzu's visit to the island. The agreement was signed by Dr Ismail Shafeeu, Minister of Education, and Hamdhaan Shakeel, Managing Director of Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation.
Connectivity enhancements were also prioritised. According to President Muizzu, an agreement signed with Hawks Hotels will facilitate the introduction of seaplane services to Kamadhoo, a development anticipated to enhance the island's connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
As part of President Muizzu's visit, the landmark agreement was signed between Maldivian, the national airline operated by Island Aviation Services Limited, and Hawks Hotels to launch seaplane services to Kamadhoo. The accord, signed by Ibrahim Iyas, Managing Director of Maldivian, and Hussain Aman, Director of Hawks Hotels, is expected to significantly improve Kamadhoo's connectivity and stimulate growth in its emerging local tourism sector.
Public Services Expanded
Healthcare infrastructure featured prominently in the president's address, with plans to expand the Kamadhoo Health Centre and upgrade its operations to a 16-hour service scheduled for contractor award by September. Mobilisation is anticipated within two months, he added, with construction scheduled to begin before the end of the year.
Youth development was addressed through commitments in the sports sector, with the State Trading Organisation tasked, according to President Muizzu, with procuring materials for new facilities, including a turf football field. Construction will commence immediately upon delivery of the required supplies, he assured.
Infrastructure improvements will be undertaken with attention to environmental integrity, with roadworks set to include proper drainage systems and designs that preserve Kamadhoo's natural aesthetics, an approach President Muizzu described as essential to supporting the island's expanding tourism sector.
The harbour project, currently assigned to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), was also addressed. The president pledged to resolve outstanding issues and ensure its completion in line with community expectations. Coastal protection works are slated to begin shortly and will be completed without delay, he added.
Broader Development Agenda
Development efforts will extend beyond immediate infrastructure, with President Muizzu announcing that a new mosque for Kamadhoo will be incorporated into next year's national budget. Additionally, a nearby uninhabited island will be designated as a picnic site to support local tourism and leisure activities. The Kamadhoo Council formally expressed its appreciation for the visit and the commitments made, noting the significance of the occasion for the island's future.
Local Concerns Raised in Consultative Meeting
Prior to his public remarks, President Muizzu convened a meeting with the Kamadhoo Island Council, the Women's Development Committee (WDC), and heads of local institutions at the Kamadhoo Pre-School. The session provided a platform for community leaders to present a detailed overview of the island's most pertinent needs.
Among the issues raised were the worsening effects of coastal erosion, overcrowding at Kamadhoo School, and the urgent requirement for a new educational facility. The absence of a football field and spatial limitations within the Council building were also highlighted.
Healthcare infrastructure emerged as a recurring concern, with council members calling for an upgrade to the Kamadhoo Health Centre to accommodate growing demand. They also highlighted the importance of preserving the island's natural beauty in road development, citing its relevance to tourism. The construction of a new mosque was identified as a further priority.
Delays in the harbour project were conveyed with urgency, prompting President Muizzu to assure the council that all concerns would be reviewed thoroughly. Ministers and state enterprise leaders present at the meeting were directed to provide updates on relevant projects.
Financial Access Expanded with BML ATM Launch
A significant step towards financial inclusion was marked with the inauguration of Bank of Maldives (BML) ATM services in Kamadhoo. The new self-service ATM offers 24-hour access for cash withdrawals, deposits, credit card payments, and loan transactions.
The initiative forms part of the government's policy to establish ATM services in every inhabited island. To commemorate the launch, the president conducted a transaction at the ATM, accompanied by BML Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Shareef. A commemorative bank card was presented to the Kamadhoo Council, received by Council President Hassan Zareer.
BML has already deployed ATM services across all inhabited islands in six atolls: Haa Alifu, Shaviyani, Dhaalu, Noonu, Meemu, and Kaafu. Kamadhoo is the 38th island to benefit from the programme. The bank aims to operate more than 250 ATMs nationwide by year-end.
Presidential Tour Begins with Warm Reception
President Muizzu's arrival in Kamadhoo marked the first stop in his tour of inhabited islands within Baa Atoll. He was welcomed at the harbour by members of the Kamadhoo Council, the Women's Development Committee, and a large number of residents.
The visit forms part of a broader initiative to engage directly with councils across all atolls, islands, and cities. Accompanying the president were several ministers and senior officials from government institutions.
The itinerary includes scheduled visits to thirteen inhabited islands: Kamadhoo, Kudarikilu, Kendhoo, Eydhafushi, Thulhaadhoo, Goidhoo, Fehendhoo, Fulhadhoo, Hithaadhoo, Kihadhoo, Dhonfanu, Dharavandhoo, and Maalhos.