Sister Island Concept – A Joint Initiative of Southern Atolls’ Island Councils

Maldivians has always proudly proved their unity despite geographically being separated by islands in times of need. The “Sister Island Concept” is a notion that the same unity remains between us, even at good times. 

Sister Island Conference was jointly held by Island Councils of the southern atolls of Maldives on 19^th September 2020 at GA. Gemanafushi for discussions related to “Sister Island Concept”. The basic goal behind the concept is effectively sharing the resources available amongst all the islands taking part in this initiative for their development. “Sister Island Concept” was initially instigated by Fuvahmulah City Council. Since then, Fuvamulah City Council and Island Councils of 9 islands in GA. atolls have vowed to adopt the policy, during the aforesaid conference. 

During the conference, discussions were carried out between the heads of the islands with respect to extending resources between islands in a variety of sectors such as education, health, economic, sports etc. The deal was sealed by signing a Memorandum of Understanding between the islands for the “Sister Island Concept”. The first program held under the concept took place in GA. Gemanafushi, on the same day, where ophthalmologists from Fuvahmulah City treated patients with eye disorders and diseases in the island. 

One of the main advantage of this concept is highlighted as not being heavily reliant on resources from Male’ City, the capital.