Girifushi expansion to create national hub for defence training and youth development
Defense Minister Hassan Rasheed inaugurated dredging, land reclamation, coastal protection and harbour upgrade projects for the military training island K. Girifushi on June 20, 2026. The project aims to expand the island from 5.7 to 19 hectares, adding 13.3 hectares of reclaimed land. It includes constructing rock revetments, outer canals, groynes, an L-block quay wall, two jetties (40m and 12m), and a 300-metre small-arms firing range. The expansion will make Girifushi the headquarters of the Maldivian National Service Training Centre, a flagship programme of President Mohamed Muizzu for youth development. The facility will house the Officer Training Wing and NCO Academy, with accommodation and a super-harbour system. Senior MNDF officials attended the ceremony.