President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, on Wednesday evening, revealed the presidential pledge to provide clean drinking water and sewerage networks in all inhabited islands will be completed next year.

He made the statement while speaking at a ceremony held at the CROSSROADS Maldives to celebrate Malé Water and Sewerage Company Pvt Ltd (MWSC) ’s 27th anniversary.

Speaking about MWSC and its achievements under his administration, President Solih recalled that 70 per cent of the country lacked proper drinking water and sewerage networks when the administration took office. Highlighting his pledge to establish water and sewerage networks on all inhabited islands during his term, President Solih stated that it would bring significant improvements to the quality of life.

Clean drinking water, the President said, would lower the risk of waterborne diseases and lead to healthier lives while simultaneously resolving drinking water shortages. It would also allow the administration to reprioritise funds to focus on other essential requirements.

The President further noted that once the project to establish these in all inhabited islands are complete, the nation would enter a new phase in developmental projects which would also free up a huge portion of the state budget that is being spent on these, starting from 2024.