Resident Representative of United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Akiko Fuji has said the Maldives is amongst the strongest advocators for human rights amongst the South East Asian nations.
Addressing the first-ever councilors conference “Viavathi Rajje”, Akiko Fuji said local councils are mandated with an important task of providing essential services in the islands in addition to developing the physical infrastructure necessary. At the event, Akiko called the councilors to cooperate with the local communities in providing better services in the islands. The Maldives has achieved remarkable developments over the past 30 years and the developments saw an addition of 17 years to the average life expectancy of Maldivians, Akiko added noting the Maldives is also observed as a nation offering the right to education for all children.
In addition, Akiko applauded the work of the Maldives in solving environmental issues in the Maldives. With the positive remarks, she highlighted the necessity to take measures to prevent flooding and burning of waste and pollution from construction projects.
Additionally, she said every year over 80 islands on average still report to authorities due to lack of drinking water which hinders agricultural, health and educational projects. Akiko strongly commended the government’s decision to allocate 33% of all councils to women highlighting the work of the administration to ensure equal opportunity for all.