Minister: Tourism can be expanded if Addu receives same level of focus as others

Tourism can be expanded in Addu if the city is afforded the same level of attention as other places receive, says Local Government Minister Adam Shareef Umar.

He made the remark on Saturday morning, at the inauguration of the Destination Addu Summit. The summit is underway at the Addu Equator Village.

Speaking at the inauguration, Adam Shareef said that Addu has plenty of potential for tourism investment. He said the city is also home to educated youth with experience in tourism.

He also pointed out that Addu is unique, with its own dialect and a rich history.

Adam Shareef said that what Addu needs now is sincerity, courage and unity among various stakeholders in order to realize its potential as a prime tourist destination.

He said that the Addu City Council is doing some responsible work on that front.

“We should switch our focus to Addu. I believe that if we focus on Addu City the same level of attention, courage and effort that we give to other places, we can achieve greater success in the work we begin today,” he said.

Adam Shareef said that Addu City wants to become financially empowered, with prosperity and plenty of economic opportunities for its residence.

He said that rather than “pointing fingers”, what is important for islands is to fulfill the essential needs of residents with the income it generates.

He provided assurance of the government’s full support for efforts to expand tourism in Addu.

Addu City has ample land, including those designated for tourism. However, challenges remain in expanding tourism in the city. The city council said Addu needs direct international flights and more tourist beds in order to expand the sector.