Malé, 14 February 2022 (TDI): Vice President of the Republic of Maldives, Faisal Naseem, hosted a gathering to discuss prospective developmental concerns and plans.
Invited to this event were council members of the Faafu Atoll Council, the Island Council, and the Women’s Development Committee (WDC).
This meeting was organized at the Secretariat of the Faafu Atoll Council on Nilandhoo Island. It forms a part of Naseem’s itinerary for his two-day trip to the three islands in the Faafu and Alifu Dhaalu regions.
CONCERNS RAISED BY COUNCIL MEMBERS
The main topic of discussion during this exchange was the proposed areas of development in the above-mentioned atolls. Council members provided their opinions on which matters should be prioritized and were allowed a chance to communicate their developmental concerns.
They shared the difficulties faced by the local people of the Magoodhoo, Dharan’boodhoo, and Nilandhoo Islands with the Vice President.
In Magoodhoo, there was the issue of space constraints in the harbor. More area was required to cater to the growing needs. Simultaneously, in Dharan’boodhoo, coastal erosion was rampant, proving detrimental for the local community residing there.
Lastly, in Nilandhoo, the infrastructure was not adequate, and there was much work to be done to improve the road system. Also, the members brought up hardships faced by hospital patients due to substandard services and equipment.
The council was struggling with financial limitations and required greater investments in order to improve the state of the hospital.
Furthermore, Nilandhoo Island Council members requested Vice President Naseem to accelerate the water and sewage network project. They argued that the region was in dire need of a proper sewage system. They also reiterated their concern for the lack of finances.
Meanwhile, WDC members advised the Vice President on possible strategies to handle the situation of financial constraints.
Vice President Faisal Naseem talking to a patient during a visit to Faafu Atoll Hospital
VICE PRESIDENT’S ASSURANCES
Vice President Naseem assured each member that their critiques were valid, and would give considerable attention to each. He promised to consult relevant government bodies and ensure their needs were catered to.
Earlier that day, Naseem also toured and assessed the Faafu Atoll Hospital to gauge the seriousness of the situation. He also met with the management and staff at the Faafu Atoll Education Centre.
