President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, on Tuesday, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering twelve development pledges to the residents of Goidhoo, Baa Atoll, citing tangible progress on several initiatives and outlining timelines for others. The visit formed part of a broader tour of thirteen inhabited islands in Baa Atoll, aimed at assessing local priorities and advancing government-led infrastructure projects.
Presidential address highlights fulfilment of key community pledges
During a community gathering on the island, President Muizzu reiterated the government’s resolve to fulfil a dozen pledges designed to support Goidhoo’s long-term development. He noted that several undertakings had already moved into implementation, including the installation of an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) and the commencement of seaplane operations.
Among the infrastructure commitments, the president cited the planned expansion of Goidhoo’s harbour. The project remains in the tendering phase, with construction expected to begin approximately one month after the tender is finalised. In addition to improving maritime access, the initiative is intended to address coastal erosion, which has posed persistent challenges for the island.
Attention has also been directed toward the education sector. President Muizzu stated that the administration has committed to completing the expansion of the school’s staff room, a project assigned to Fenaka Corporation. He added that a new school hall is scheduled to break ground early next year, forming part of broader efforts to enhance educational facilities.
Government advances infrastructure, health, and housing agenda
The president outlined plans to strengthen the island’s energy infrastructure through a comprehensive upgrade of the power station. This initiative, scheduled for implementation within the current year, aims to resolve longstanding electricity-related issues.
Healthcare services are set to expand with the construction of a fully equipped health centre. The project, President Muizzu noted, is currently in the process of being assigned to a contractor, and an increase in medical personnel is anticipated within the year to support the expanded facility.
Recreational development has been incorporated into the government’s agenda, with a new football field ready for formal announcement and construction of a fitness and recreation centre expected to commence later this year. Plans to develop a resort in the Goidhoo lagoon and to promote eco-tourism are advancing, the president said, with both projects slated for assignment to relevant parties.
Housing needs have been addressed through the authorisation of land allocations under the existing land use plan, the president said. He assured residents that all current applicants would receive plots, and indicated that further allocations could be facilitated through amendments to the plan if required. He noted that the administration would continue to engage with the community to ensure that development initiatives reflect local priorities.
Local council meeting underscores urgent development needs
Earlier in the day, President Muizzu met with members of the Goidhoo Island Council, the Women’s Development Committee (WDC), and heads of local institutions at Goidhoo School. The meeting focused on the island’s most pressing development concerns.
Council representatives underscored the need to upgrade the health centre and to establish additional public facilities. They raised concerns about the location of Fenaka Corporation’s office, currently situated in a residential area with limited space, and advocated for the construction of a new office building.
The discussion also addressed the condition of the island’s electricity grid and the need to extend power supply to the designated tourism zone. Opportunities for eco-tourism development were highlighted, alongside challenges facing Goidhoo School, including spatial constraints, stalled staff room construction, and defects in the electrical system. Council members requested updates on the status of the multipurpose hall and sports arena projects.
In response, President Muizzu affirmed that the government would review the concerns in detail and pursue practical solutions. He provided updates on ongoing development efforts, joined by cabinet ministers and senior officials from state-owned enterprises.
Inauguration of Goidhoo police station project aims to broaden law enforcement reach
During the visit, President Muizzu also presided over a ceremony held to mark the formal initiation of construction of a police station in Goidhoo, as part of a sweeping national effort to extend law enforcement infrastructure across all inhabited islands of the country. The project is undertaken by Fenaka Corporation.
The event drew the participation of senior officials, including Ali Ihusaan, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology; Ismail Naveen, Commissioner of Police; Mohamed Najaah, Managing Director of Fenaka Corporation; and Ibrahim Shaheed, President of the Goidhoo Council.
The Goidhoo development reflects the administration’s declared objective to establish police stations and ensure the provision of policing services on every inhabited island within a two-year timeframe. According to government statements, construction efforts have already begun this year in several locations currently lacking a police presence.
ATM service launch marks milestone in nationwide banking expansion
As part of the visit, President Muizzu formally inaugurated the newly established Bank of Maldives (BML) ATM service on Goidhoo. The island is the 41st to receive ATM services under a national initiative to expand banking accessibility across the country. The president has pledged to ensure that all inhabited islands are equipped with ATM facilities, with BML working to establish 100 new units this year.
To mark the occasion, President Muizzu conducted a symbolic withdrawal from the ATM. A commemorative bank card was presented to the Goidhoo Island Council, received by Council President Ibrahim Shahid. The self-service ATM offers 24-hour access for individuals and businesses, enabling cash withdrawals, deposits, bill payments, and fund transfers, as well as credit card and loan servicing.
The joint initiative between the government and BML has already extended ATM services to all inhabited islands in six atolls: Haa Alifu, Shaviyani, Dhaalu, Noonu, Meemu, and Kaafu. With the inclusion of Goidhoo, the BML network now comprises more than 250 ATMs nationwide. The bank reaffirmed its commitment to delivering convenient banking services in close proximity to communities, in alignment with national development priorities.
Presidential tour reinforces community-centred governance
President Muizzu’s arrival in Goidhoo marked the sixth stop in his tour of Baa Atoll, which spans from 11 to 14 August and includes thirteen inhabited islands: Kamadhoo, Kudarikilu, Kendhoo, Eydhafushi, Thulhaadhoo, Goidhoo, Fehendhoo, Fulhadhoo, Hithaadhoo, Kihadhoo, Dhonfanu, Dharavandhoo, and Maalhos.
Upon arrival, the president was welcomed by senior officials, institutional representatives, and residents of all age groups. Accompanying him on the tour are several ministers and senior officials from various government bodies.
The tour is intended to facilitate direct engagement with citizens, assess local conditions, and consult with island councils on development priorities. These visits aim to ensure that government initiatives remain responsive to community feedback and grounded in the lived realities of the Maldivian people.