Mohamed Thakurufaanu had requested Sh. Maroshi's Raaveribe to prepare the Kalhuohfummi and fix its sail in order to fight for and protect the country. It is said that the large Sea Trumpet tree that can be found in Maroshi was used to hold the sail on one of the three masts of the boat.
Another thing is the canal on the eastern side of the island. Historians have said that this canal was made so that the Kalhuohfummi can dock and set sail from the island. The boat would hide from the enemy by docking at the canal. The residents of Maroshi and their aid was pivotal, influencing Boduthakurufaanu's fight for independence.
However, residents of Maroshi still have a concern. And that is the exclusion of Maroshi when Boduthakurufaanu is being talked about.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is currently visiting Shaviyani Atoll. Upon his arrival to Maroshi yesterday, a resident had expressed this concern to the President during the conference.
He stated that while Maroshi shares Boduthakurufaanu's story, the government does not hold the island in any special regard.
"Maroshi played an important role in Boduthakurufaanu's defense and fight for independence against the Portuguese. This island was the biggest base of operations in that fight. However,, the government and other parties such as historians do not make a note of this. The shadows of two other islands are being cast on Maroshi. The work of the Maroshi people has not been recognized," said the resident.
He stated that Maroshi's Raaveribe took part in the fight, watched the currents and tides, went on some sea voyages and provided food.
The resident also said that Maroshi residents would carry Boduthakurufaanu's commands to other islands in a time when technology did not exist. He went on to say that there is nothing that recognizes these efforts.
The resident requested President Muizzu that a North Police marine operation center be established at Maroshi. He also requested an awareness program for fishermen and other people of the region be carried out.
The resident also stated that the council has set aside funds for an emergency center to be established that will have marine vessels and crew members that will operate should the need arise.
The President responded to his concerns, stating that a center to symbolize Maroshi's struggle and any other requests the residents may have will move forward with the ministry.
"There are things that we can do to protect the island's history. We will inform the relevant ministry about this. I will also announce other things in this regard. This island and its residents share a great deal of history," said President Muizzu.
The Maroshi land reclamation project is a pledge of the President. The agreement was signed yesterday.
