Keylakunu

ECOCARE Maldives Calls for Preservation of Keylakunu as Government Announces Eco-Tourism Plans

ECOCARE Maldives renewed its call for preservation of Keylakunu Island in Haa Dhaalu Atoll after the government announced eco-tourism plans including floating villas and a visitor centre. Keylakunu features a unique Avicennia marina forest, the only wild mangrove forest in the Maldives. Maeed Mohamed Zahir, ECOCARE's Director of Advocacy, emphasized its ecological significance and urged designation as a biosphere reserve. Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had designated the island, reef, and lagoon as protected areas on 25 December 2018. Previous administration under Abdulla Yameen also planned tourism there. ECOCARE, established in 1994, advocates for environmental protection.