Addu City, Maldives – President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Sunday night stated that Addu City and its growth plays a significant role in the development of the Maldives.
He made the statement at the ‘Maahefun’ hosted by the President and the First Lady to the people of Addu City.
Reminiscing the presidential elections, President Solih stated that he was satisfied that the government has been fulfilling the developmental plans previously presented to him by the Addu City Council during the last campaign gathering held in the city.
President Solih said that he has not forgotten the pledges he made to the people of Addu City and highlighted the major developmental projects currently underway, particularly noting the road development project. The President also revealed that redevelopment of Gan International Airport would commence soon.
The President remarked that land reclamation was amongst the development plans conferred to him by the residents of Addu during the presidential election, and underscored the land reclamation project in Addu City that was contracted today. President Solih said that the project would proceed in accordance with the recommendations made by the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) report in an effort to mitigate any environmental damage.
President Solih had also addressed the need for more accessible employment opportunities, and reflected on expanding the tourism sector, noting that part of Herethere Resort is already operational, while Shangri-La Resort is expected reopen soon. He also revealed that the building that housed ‘Dhoogas’ has now been leased to Gan International Airport to be developed as a large hotel.
In his speech, the President highlighted efforts to improve essential needs such as utility services and healthcare. In an effort to resolve power shortages, the President revealed that a new powerhouse with 41 megawatts capacity would be completed within seven months. As per the concerns raised by the management of Addu Equatorial Hospital (AEH), President Solih said that the government would increase the hospital’s human resource capacity and equipment.
The President earlier on Sunday visited the FENAKA Office and toured the Addu City Nature Park.
President Solih and First Lady Fazna Ahmed are currently visiting Addu City during an official trip, where multiple government projects have been inaugurated.
