Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu has said the Fitness and Recreation Centres being established across the islands will help address challenges in maintaining sports facilities.

Speaking at the Ahaa Forum held at Sultan Park, Minister Rafiu acknowledged that many sports facilities across the country require maintenance, with some requiring replacement due to delays in repair works.

He said the Fitness and Recreation Centres would provide a base for ministry staff to carry out maintenance work on sports facilities in the islands.

The centres will also accommodate staff involved in maintenance, administrative work and the delivery of programmes, he said.

Minister Rafiu added that a dedicated budget has been allocated to the centres for the maintenance of sports facilities.

He said the Government also plans to bring sports facilities currently managed by councils, as well as facilities donated by individuals, under the Ministry’s management. A circular was sent to councils in 2024 regarding the transfer, he said.

Minister Rafiu said a similar approach is being taken by other government ministries to maintain their facilities in the islands, adding that a coordinated system would help ensure sports facilities are maintained over the long term.