More than 1,200 development projects are currently underway across the Maldives, with funding arrangements in place to ensure payments can be made, Minister of Finance and Government Enterprises Hassan Zareer has stated.

Speaking at the Ahaa Forum, Minister Zareer responded to a question about stalled projects in Noonu Velidhoo, explaining that ministers from the relevant ministries are closely monitoring the progress of development projects across the islands.

He said difficulties in sourcing materials, partly due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, remain a major challenge to project implementation. However, the government is working to secure funding to complete priority projects despite these obstacles.

The minister confirmed that work is currently ongoing on 1,273 projects, adding that arrangements have been made to ensure payments for the projects can be fulfilled.

“We are working to ensure that every project on every island is prioritised, funded and carried forward,” Minister Zareer said.

The government’s development agenda also aligns with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s vision of establishing essential services and infrastructure across all inhabited islands by Independence Day in 2028.

Key targets include completing water and sewerage systems, waste management facilities, fitness and recreation centres, outdoor gyms and children’s parks, while expanding ATM access across the islands.

The plans also include strengthening healthcare services through police facilities and laboratories, improving school infrastructure to support inclusive education, and completing ongoing projects in the religious, sports and tourism sectors.

The government aims to advance these initiatives as part of its broader vision of transforming the Maldives into a developed nation by 2040.