The Maldives and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have formalized a significant grant agreement to bolster Malé’s disaster resilience. The USD 10.5 million (1.56 billion Japanese Yen) initiative, signed on Tuesday, focuses on upgrading Malé’s seawalls and improving its stormwater drainage systems, crucial steps in mitigating the increasing risks posed by climate change.
The agreement, signed by Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning Hassan Miras for the Maldives and JICA Maldives Office Resident Representative Taki Motoo for JICA, took place at a ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Finance and Planning. The event was attended by Japan’s Ambassador to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko, and senior officials from various Maldivian ministries, including Finance, Foreign Affairs, and Construction, Housing and Infrastructure.
This collaboration builds upon an Exchange of Notes signed by both governments on July 26th, outlining a joint commitment to strengthening disaster preparedness in Malé. The project’s scope extends beyond immediate protection, aiming to safeguard economic activity and foster community resilience in the face of escalating climate-related challenges.
Mr. Motoo highlighted Japan’s long-standing support for the Maldives, emphasizing the crucial role seawalls constructed with Japanese assistance (1988-2006) played in protecting Malé during the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. He underscored that this new project will leverage advanced drainage system technology to effectively manage high waves and heavy rainfall, further enhancing the city’s defenses.
Deputy Minister Miras stressed the project’s critical importance in addressing the growing threat of flooding and water-related hazards in Malé, which houses a substantial portion of the nation’s population and economic activity. He emphasized that the initiative will be instrumental in safeguarding both public safety and economic stability.
The Maldivian government expressed its sincere gratitude to Japan and JICA for their continued dedication to supporting resilience-building and sustainable development within the Maldives. This substantial investment underscores the commitment of both nations to mitigating the impacts of climate change and ensuring the long-term safety and prosperity of Malé and its residents.
The project’s implementation promises to significantly enhance Malé’s infrastructure, providing a more robust defense against the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. This collaboration serves as a model for international cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in vulnerable coastal communities.
The improved seawalls and drainage systems are expected to provide substantial protection for the city’s infrastructure and its inhabitants, reducing the risk of damage and displacement during future extreme weather events. The project’s success will contribute significantly to the overall resilience of the Maldivian capital and serve as a testament to the power of international collaboration in tackling climate-related challenges.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in the Maldives’ efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change and build a more resilient future for its citizens. The project’s focus on both structural improvements and community resilience underscores a holistic approach to disaster risk reduction, ensuring long-term sustainability and community well-being.
The successful completion of this project will not only enhance the safety and security of Malé’s residents but also serve as a valuable case study for other vulnerable coastal communities facing similar challenges globally. The collaboration between the Maldives and Japan exemplifies the importance of international partnerships in addressing the pressing issue of climate change adaptation.
The long-term benefits of this project extend beyond immediate disaster mitigation. By strengthening Malé’s infrastructure and improving its resilience, the initiative will contribute to the sustainable economic development of the Maldives, protecting vital economic activities and ensuring the continued prosperity of the nation.