The outdoor fitness equipment procured for 61 islands under the financial assistance of Government of India has been handed over to the Government of the Maldives.
The Speaker of Parliament Mohamed Nasheed, Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid, Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment Ahmed Mahloof, and the High Commissioner of India to the Maldives Sunjay Sudir took part in the ceremony to hand over the equipment. The ceremony was also attended by parliamentarians representing the constituencies where the fitness equipment will be installed, and other officials from the government, and the High Commission of India in Male’.
The project was funded under the grant assistance provided by the Indian government in March 2019, towards socio-economic development projects across the country. A total of USD 519,230 was allocated to the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment to procure outdoor fitness equipment for 61 islands, to encourage the citizens of the Maldives to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.
Speaking at the event, Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid stated the inauguration of the outdoor fitness equipment affirms the pledge of the government to improve access to fitness and exercise equipment all over the Maldives. Moreover, the minister stated this project has the potential to revitalise the strong bonds of community and kinship amongst the island communities, whilst maintaining a healthy day-to-day routine.
The project was approved by the Government of India on May 28, 2019, to be financed under the grant assistance extended to the Government of Maldives following the visit of former External Affairs Minister of India, late Sushma Swaraj. The Indian grant assistance covers the procurement of the equipment, while the transportation to the islands and installation will be carried out by the Maldivian government under the supervision of the youth ministry.
The project is a contribution to the election pledge made by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to increase access to fitness equipment, in order to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce the burden of fighting non-communicable diseases in the Maldives.