Kunahandhoo futsal project stalls, missing deadline set by current administration
Residents, particularly the island's youth, are now expressing frustration over what they see as an unfulfilled promise
The futsal ground initiated by the previous government in Kunahandhoo: Work has been halted since the current administration took over
The youth of Kunahandhoo Island in Laamu Atoll have begun raising concerns over the lack of progress on the futsal ground promised by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu during his presidential campaign.
During a visit to Kunahandhoo ahead of the 2023 presidential election, President Muizzu pledged to complete the construction of a futsal field on the island within three months of taking office. However, nearly two years into his administration, no tangible progress has been made on the project.
Residents, particularly the island's youth, are now expressing frustration over what they see as an unfulfilled promise, as the project remains stalled with no clear timeline for commencement or completion.
The youth of Kunahandhoo have voiced growing concerns to RaajjeMV over the stalled futsal ground project promised by the government. They reported that construction has not progressed, and materials brought for the field are now deteriorating due to poor storage conditions.
Speaking to RaajjeMV, the island’s youth emphasized that the delay has deprived many young residents of the opportunity to play futsal, a popular sport on the island. They expressed frustration that the turf and pipes delivered for the project are left exposed to harsh salt air without any protection, leading to significant damage.
Further, the youth community has accused the island council of dodging responsibility for safeguarding the construction materials and advancing the project, deepening concerns over the future of the long-awaited facility.
Kunahandhoo Island boasts a passionate youth community deeply enthusiastic about football, particularly futsal. However, the absence of a dedicated playing field has left many young athletes discouraged.
The Kunahandhoo Council awarded the contract to Maldives Assure Supply in September 2022, during the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Under the previous government, significant progress was made, including the completion of fencing around the proposed futsal ground and the sand filling of the site. Work was also nearing the stages of leveling the ground and laying the turf.
However, since the current government led by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu took office, the project has come to a standstill. Sources say the Kunahandhoo Council has made little effort to advance construction, leaving the field unfinished.
Laamu atoll, where Kunahandhoo is located, is well-known for its strong futsal culture, with local teams achieving notable success in national tournaments. Kunahandhoo itself has seen the rise of a talented new generation of futsal players, making the lack of proper facilities a growing concern for the island’s youth.
Without a suitable field, the community fears the momentum of local futsal development could be lost.
