Th. Vandhoo awarded Kakolhas island for 20 years

Thaa Atoll Vandhoo has officially been granted the uninhabited island Kakolhas for a period of 20 years.

During President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s ongoing tour of Thaa Atoll, Vandhoo marked his third stop. In a meeting held with the island's residents, Minister of Local Government Adam Shareef formally handed over the ownership documents to Vandhoo Island Council. The documents were received by Council President Shiyaz Ibrahim on behalf of the council.

Kakolhas is a lush, green island located about one mile from Vandhoo.

Speaking at the meeting, President Muizzu encouraged the people of Vandhoo to develop the island and use it as a source of economic prosperity. He assured the community that the council will be empowered to benefit from the island in a more comprehensive way.

“Additional concessions and positive changes will be made to the agreement. We will explore and provide more ways for the island council to benefit,” the President said.

President Muizzu also highlighted the importance of resolving the island’s jetty issue, stating that an agreement had been signed earlier that day to officially address and finalize the matter. The jetty project will also include beach protection components, he added.

Council President Shiyaz Ibrahim expressed his satisfaction with the outcome of the visit, noting that acquiring Kakolhas was one of the most significant developments for the people of Vandhoo.

“One of the biggest achievements during President Muizzu’s visit is securing Kakolhas for the next 20 years, allowing the people of Vandhoo to benefit from its resources,” he said.

He added that the primary aim is to utilize Kakolhas for agricultural activities as Kakolhas has been linked with agriculture since our forefathers’ time, and livestock farming, creating jobs and generating income for the island. The council also plans to reinvest any revenue from the island into the development of Vandhoo.

According to the agreement, one section of Kakolhas may also be rented out to a third party, offering further opportunities for income generation.