President Muizzu Pledges Completion of Alifushi Airport and Hospital This Term

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has committed to completing the stalled airport and hospital projects in Alifushi, Raa Atoll, ensuring both facilities are operational within his current presidential term. Addressing journalists during a regular press briefing, the President responded to concerns over the slow progress of the Alifushi hospital. He emphasized that healthcare is a primary pillar of his administration, noting that the sector receives one of the largest shares of projects under this year's state budget to repair a system he described as "fragile" upon taking office. The 30-bed hospital, valued at USD 8.3 million and awarded to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), aims to expand specialist medical access for the island's 3,000 residents. The new facility will include modern flu clinics and isolation wards to prevent service disruptions during future outbreaks, as well as solar photovoltaic systems to reduce long-term energy costs. Parallel to the healthcare upgrades, the government is pushing forward with the Alifushi airport, a long-standing aspiration for the geographically isolated community. The USD 27.6 million project involves the construction of a 1,200-metre runway, a terminal building, and a fire station. To facilitate this, 50.5 hectares of land have been reclaimed, with 80 percent dedicated to the airport and the remainder reserved for housing and economic development. President Muizzu acknowledged that while some projects have faced delays, Alifushi remains central to the government's regional development strategy. He confirmed that financing for MTCC to procure necessary equipment has been secured, which will allow the contractor to resume work without further delay. This push is part of a broader national healthcare schedule, with the President stating that hospitals and health centres across the Maldives are being developed in phases to establish a holistic, comprehensive service network for all citizens.