Vice President Faisal Naseem has held discussions on development plans with members of the Gaafaru Island Council.
At the meeting held at the President's Office, the councillors discussed the development plans for Gaafaru, Kaafu Atoll, and the most pressing concerns and needs from the island's community. Expressing the concerns of the residents of Gaafaru, the council noted that one of the most urgent issues is the scarcity of land, inquiring on the latest updates of the land reclamation project.
They also mentioned that a shortage of school infrastructure had prompted the islanders to educate in two sessions, which had created some further problems. The councillors also shared difficulties faced by the absence of a local police station and reiterated their desire for better economic prospects. They also stated that they intend to expand the tourism and sports sectors on the Island.
Addressing their concerns, Vice President Naseem recommended the councillors collaborate with the Gaafaru Women Development Committee to resolve the raised concerns. He noted councils are responsible for planning and implementing skill development projects for the resident younger generations under the new amendments to the Decentralisation Act.
He also stated that he would discuss with relevant authorities and ministries to work together to find solutions to the issues shared by the council.