A delegation from China is scheduled to arrive in the Maldives next month to begin feasibility assessments for the construction of 50 council office buildings across various islands, a major initiative funded through Chinese government assistance.
The announcement was made by Minister of Local Government Adam Shareef in an interview with Public Service Media (PSM), where he emphasized the administration’s commitment to empowering local councils by ensuring they have the infrastructure and resources needed to function effectively.
As part of this initiative, the government plans to establish purpose-built office spaces for island councils, supporting decentralization efforts and strengthening governance at the grassroots level. The upcoming feasibility studies will be conducted by the visiting Chinese team to assess logistical, environmental, and structural requirements before construction begins.
“This is a crucial step toward equipping our councils with the right facilities to better serve their communities,” said Minister Shareef. “The feasibility study will help us understand the technical scope and align the project with each island’s specific needs.”
A letter of exchange formalizing the partnership was signed between the governments of Maldives and China last month, setting the framework for project implementation.
The 50 council office buildings are planned for the following islands:
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Haa Alif Atoll: Vashafaru, Ihavandhoo, Dhihdhoo
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Haa Dhaalu Atoll: Kumundhoo, Neykurandhoo, Vaikaradhoo
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Shaviyani Atoll: Feydhoo, Komandoo, Goidhoo, Narudhoo
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Noonu Atoll: Hen’badhoo, Lhohi, Fohdhoo, Manadhoo, Magoodhoo, Landhoo
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Raa Atoll: Vaadhoo, Hulhudhuffaaru
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Baa Atoll: Kamadhoo, Kudarikilu, Fehendhoo, Eydhafushi, Thulhaadhoo, Kihaadhoo
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Lhaviyani Atoll: Kurendhoo
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Kaafu Atoll: Himmafushi, Kaashidhoo, Guraidhoo, Thulusdhoo, Gaafaru
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Alif Dhaalu Atoll: Kum’burudhoo, Mahibadhoo, Fenfushi
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Meemu Atoll: Muli, Dhiggaru, Mulah
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Faafu Atoll: Feeali
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Dhaalu Atoll: Hulhudheli, Ban’didhoo
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Thaa Atoll: Omadhoo, Gaadhiffushi, Buruni, Guraidhoo, Veymandoo
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Laamu Atoll: Maabaidhoo, Kunahandhoo, Maavah
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Gaafu Alif Atoll: Maamendhoo, Nilandhoo
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Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll: Madaveli
This large-scale infrastructure project reflects the Maldives’ continued partnership with China, particularly in areas of development and public service delivery. The effort is also aligned with the government’s broader strategy to strengthen local governance and ensure equitable development across all atolls.
Officials from both nations are expected to coordinate closely in the coming months, with construction likely to begin following the completion and approval of the feasibility assessments.
