The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation and UNFPA Maldives have signed an agreement to introduce a “People-Centred Community Tourism Empowerment Model” aimed at increasing public participation in the tourism sector.

The initiative seeks to ensure that the benefits of tourism reach local communities more directly and to expand public involvement in tourism policymaking and development.

The pilot programme will be launched in Baa Atoll, covering the islands of Dharavandhoo, Dhonfanu, Kihaadhoo and Kendhoo. Baa Atoll was selected due to its status as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and its suitability for sustainable, community-based tourism.

The project is designed to create opportunities for women, young people and senior citizens. Residents will be able to contribute to tourism through activities such as sharing local history and culture, promoting local products and food, and providing tourism-related services.

As part of the programme, mapping exercises will be carried out to identify each island’s natural, cultural and human resources, helping to shape future training and capacity-building initiatives.

The Tourism Ministry said the project represents a major step towards ensuring local communities play a greater role in tourism development and benefit more directly from the industry. Mapping work in the selected islands is expected to begin in the coming months, followed by community-focused training programmes.