President Dr Mohamed Muizzu revealed an extensive development agenda for Dhiggaru in Meemu Atoll, pledging major investment in housing infrastructure, healthcare, and education. The announcement, delivered during a meeting with island residents, formed part of his official tour across four atolls.

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President Muizzu announced a two-phase residential expansion, addressing persistent concerns over housing shortages. calling it Dhiggaru’s most urgent need. Construction of the first 75 housing units will begin this year, with a second 75-unit project starting soon after.

He stated that “The coming days will be crucial for Dhiggaru’s housing development and population consolidation”. He also mentioned that alongside the initial 75 homes, work will commence on an additional 75 units, aligning with the administration’s population consolidation policy.

Plans to expand and repair Dhiggaru’s harbour were also outlined and identified as a high-priority initiative. The construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026. The president also noted the overcrowding at Dhiggaru School and revealed plans for a new facility with nine classrooms and a multipurpose hall, slated for inclusion in the 2026 national budget.

Highlighting Dhiggaru’s identity as a fishing community, President Muizzu assured residents that broader national fisheries reforms will benefit them directly. While noting that some initiatives require time, he emphasised that phased implementation does not equate to unfulfilled promises. He further pledged visible progress in multiple areas, including education, health sports, and civic infrastructure. Among his commitments were the resumption of stalled sports projects, such as the football ground, a fitness and recreation centre, and a volleyball court.

During the visit, representatives from the Island Council, Women’s Development Committee (WDC), and other local institutions raised urgent concerns. Their requests included fast-tracking harbour upgrades, extending utilities to reclaimed land, appointing a resident doctor, and providing a sea ambulance. They also called for the swift development of the football ground, construction of an administrative building of Fenaka staff, the establishment of a police station, and support for the fishing community.

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A highlight of the visit was the signing of a contract to build a 30-bed hospital. The agreement was signed between Minister of Health Abdullah Nazim Ibrahim and Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) CEO Ahmed Saudee.

Minister Nazim previously stated that healthcare allocations in the current and next year’s budgets would accelerate treatment accessibility across the atolls.

President Muizzu also marked the completion of coastal protection works for Dhiggaru’s reclaimed land, which added 25 hectares in 2023 to address land scarcity.

The works, executed by MTCC at a cost exceeding USD 1.14 million, included a 700-metre rock boulder revetment, a 138-metre outer seawall, and a 332-metre geo-bag revetment to safeguard the new area.