The Maldives has commenced consultations for its “Viluntheri Raajje 2045” (Resilient Maldives 2045) National Development Masterplan, a comprehensive blueprint guiding the nation’s progress over the next two decades. The Ministry of Finance and Planning announced that the initial phase of consultations began with visits to inhabited islands, prioritizing direct engagement with local communities.
The team spearheading the masterplan’s development initiated the process in K. Guraidhoo, engaging in discussions with the island council and residents. These crucial conversations centered on key priorities for social and economic advancement, long-term visions for the island, and the incorporation of local perspectives into the nation’s future trajectory. The discussions aimed to gather valuable insights into the unique needs and aspirations of the island’s population, ensuring their voices are integral to the plan’s formulation.
The Ministry of Finance and Planning confirmed that this consultative approach will encompass all inhabited islands across the Maldives. The plan is to engage with island and atoll councils, government agencies, businesses, and community organizations. This inclusive strategy ensures a wide range of stakeholders contribute to shaping the masterplan, fostering a collaborative and representative planning process. The ministry emphasized the importance of broad participation in achieving a truly national and sustainable plan.
The overarching goal of the National Development Masterplan is to establish a long-term strategic framework for national initiatives. This framework will prioritize the sustainable utilization of resources for the benefit of all citizens. A key focus is building resilience against the impacts of climate change, a critical consideration for a low-lying island nation. The plan also aims to adapt to the ever-evolving global economic and technological landscapes, ensuring the Maldives remains competitive and prosperous in the years to come.
The development of this 20-year masterplan is a key pledge of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration. The government has set an ambitious target for completion by November of next year. This ambitious timeline reflects the government’s commitment to proactive planning and its dedication to achieving its broader goal of attaining developed nation status by 2040. This aspirational target underscores the significance of the masterplan in shaping the Maldives’ future trajectory.
The comprehensive nature of the consultations, coupled with the ambitious timeline and long-term vision, signifies a concerted effort by the Maldivian government to ensure sustainable and inclusive development. The plan’s success hinges on the active participation of all stakeholders, reflecting a commitment to a collaborative and participatory approach to national planning. The resulting masterplan will serve as a roadmap for the Maldives’ future, guiding its development towards a prosperous and resilient future.