Male, Maldives: Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu has described the Maldives Sports Development Plan as a visionary and essential step to provide emerging talents with the opportunity to compete at the highest level over the next 20 years.
Nearly a year ago, the Maldives embarked on the inaugural phase of its long-term sports development plan. This initiative is part of the "Hafthaa 14" pledge by President His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, aimed at shaping the future of sports in the country.
The project kicked off in collaboration with the American International Coaching Enrichment Certificate Program (ICECP).
"It's a pleasure to share the progress we made in the first year of Maldives Sports Development plan," Minister Rafiu said during a recent presentation event.
"In the past year, we have made important advances in the development of sports we have met key stakeholders, including the Maldives Olympic Committee, National Sports Associations, National Sports Council and various other government ministries, these discussions helped shape the plan we addressed, and found out gaps in the current system,"
Based on the insights gathered, a SWOT analysis was conducted by ICECP consultants, leading to a strategic plan aimed at achieving an Olympic podium finish by 2040.
"I understand this is an ambitious project, we are ready to start this journey, with baby steps, and are determined to take great strides as we move through this journey." Rafiu Stated.
Minister Rafiu meets with American International Coaching Enrichment Certificate Program (ICECP).--- PHOTO: Sports Ministry Media
The stakeholders in the Maldives sports industry have carefully planned this journey and are now ready to focus on the implementation of the strategies developed, according to the Minister.
He said "A journey of this magnitude need strong team work to implement, im delighted the implementation team is diverse which brings a wealth of experience, and light of new ideas in this course"
Over the past year, the Ministry of Sports has taken several steps to improve the sector. These include the establishment of a National Sports Fund, the launch of the "Hashiheyo Program," and the ongoing progress of the Sports Act Amendment in Parliament, which aims to decentralize the governance of sports in the country.
"We’ve also drafted the initial version of the plan, which highlights structural deficiencies and identifies areas for immediate improvement. While we've faced challenges, particularly in administration and resource allocation, solutions to these issues are being addressed through the amendments to the Sports Act, which are currently under discussion in Parliament," Minister Rafiu explained.
He stressed the importance of the plan, noting that it will create clear pathways for athletes, coaches, and sports associations to achieve success. With a focus on long-term athlete development, the plan is designed to lay the foundation for sustainable success, ensuring the Maldives can compete at the highest international levels.
"My hopes for this plan is high, we continue our collaborations and we will overcome the challenges , lay the groundwork for thriving sports system." says, Minister Rafiu
"With the help of all the people we reach this level, my team believes we have moved rapidly in our plans we laid down a year back. success is not an individuals task, success will bring through a team work, which we believe in sports, we need collaborations from all of you,"
Reflecting on the progress made, Rafiu recalled that a year ago, the same team had gathered to discuss this plan, and they have already achieved part of their vision. He attributed this progress to their collective effort.
"It is our teamwork, it is our plan, it is our future, that we work for." Minister Rafiu concluded.
