President Muizzu Sets 2028 Deadline for Nationwide Essential Infrastructure Projects

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced an ambitious development roadmap, pledging to complete a comprehensive suite of infrastructure projects across the Maldives by Independence Day 2028. This target is framed as a critical milestone in the nation's strategic goal to achieve developed-country status by 2040. Speaking at the 61st Independence Day celebrations, the President highlighted a significant increase in project delivery. He noted that the current administration has completed 590 projects within its first two years and eight months, surpassing the completion rates of the two previous administrations during equivalent periods. Currently, 1,635 projects are under implementation, reflecting a sharp rise in state-led development activity. Under a decentralized development policy, the government aims to ensure equitable growth regardless of island size. By 2028, all inhabited islands are expected to have functional water and sewerage systems, waste management facilities, recreation centers, and ATM services. The President also emphasized the expansion of healthcare, promising CT scans and dialysis services in every atoll, alongside upgraded inclusive education facilities. Further commitments include establishing fuel stations at State Trading Organisation (STO) rates in every atoll and ensuring all communities have airport access within 30 minutes. The government is also focusing on tourism for citizens through the development of 10 dedicated resorts, while continuing major urban works including the redevelopment of Malé's roads and the construction of Villimalé Hospital. Beyond infrastructure, President Muizzu addressed public health, announcing a new national award starting July 26 next year to recognize contributions to tobacco control. This follows the introduction of a generational tobacco ban and a ban on vaping to protect youth and society from addiction. To tackle long-standing medicine shortages, the President highlighted the establishment of StatePharma. He described this move as a permanent solution to a systemic issue that previous administrations failed to resolve, ensuring more reliable access to essential pharmaceuticals for all citizens.