Canada Fund for Local Initiatives Grant Empowers "Reimagine Noonu Atoll Binaaveshi Project"

We are honoured to share that the ambitious "Reimagine Noonu Atoll Binaaveshi Project" has been further strengthened through a vital partnership with Land Sea Maldives under the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI). This collaboration will implement the "Regional Integrated Sustainability Initiative (RISI): Fostering Resilient Communities in Noonu Atoll," a key pillar in our shared vision of sustainable development and community well-being for the atoll.

The CFLI grant represents an investment in both our environment and our people. Set to launch in June 2024, this two-year initiative will address critical challenges, such as uncoordinated land use planning, resource depletion, and population pressures. Guided by a commitment to inclusivity, the project aims to drive equitable, resilient, and sustainable futures for the interconnected communities of Noonu Atoll.

Highlights of the RISI Initiative

Integrated Atoll Land Use Plan Workshop:

This participatory workshop will engage 25 female political candidates in guided discussions with experts in law, economics, planning, and Indigenous knowledge systems, fostering inclusive leadership and informed decision-making.

Capacity-Building Consultancy:

A six-month consultancy, led by specialists in urban planning, social sciences, and governance, will equip council staff with the skills to design and execute sustainable, long-term action plans for the community.

Integrated Atoll Development Forum:

This forum will convene Atoll Councils, civil society organisations, and key stakeholders to foster collaboration, ensuring an integrated, community-driven approach to land-use planning.

Accessible Knowledge Resources:

To empower local leaders and residents, the initiative will produce user-friendly guides and planning tools, making knowledge and expertise accessible to everyone committed to shaping the atoll’s future.

Long-Term Goals

The "Reimagine Noonu Atoll Binaaveshi Project," through its RISI framework, aspires to bring meaningful, measurable change. Some of the anticipated outcomes include the adoption of a sustainable development framework by the Noonu Atoll Council. By facilitating active community involvement, the project aims to boost participation in governance processes by 30%. With a particular commitment to advancing women’s leadership, capacity-building efforts will foster inclusive governance. Importantly, this initiative also seeks to enhance quality of life across Noonu Atoll, with a projected 20% increase in community satisfaction with socioeconomic and environmental indicators.

This collaboration is an embodiment of shared vision and joint responsibility, rooted in the belief that progress is built through inclusivity, transparency, and resilience. Together with Land Sea Maldives and the generous support of CFLI, we are taking critical steps to protect our natural heritage, nurture vibrant communities, and create sustainable economic opportunities.

This grant amplifies the ability of the "Reimagine Noonu Atoll Binaaveshi Project" to directly impact and transform lives while preserving the environment for future generations. For Noonu Atoll, this is not just progress—it’s a promise of equity and resilience for all.