This Grant Agreement follows the Exchange of Notes signed on 26 July 2025 between the Governments of Japan and the Republic of Maldives.
Ministry of Finance and Planning
The Government of the Republic of Maldives and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have signed a Grant Agreement to support the Project for Disaster Resilience Enhancement in Malé Island (Construction Phase). The agreement, amounting to 1.56 billion Japanese Yen (approximately USD10.5 million) will strengthen Malé’s seawalls and provide stormwater drainage equipment to mitigate risks from waves and heavy rainfall. This Grant Agreement follows the Exchange of Notes signed on 26 July 2025 between the Governments of Japan and the Republic of Maldives. The project aims to safeguard daily life, economic activity, and community resilience by reinforcing disaster preparedness in the capital.
The Signing Ceremony was hosted by the Ministry of Finance and Planning on 09 September 2025. The Agreement was signed by the Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Mr. Hassan Miras, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Maldives, and the Resident Representative of JICA Maldives Office, Mr. Taki Motoo, on behalf of JICA.
In his address, Mr. Taki highlighted that the project is a continuation of Japan’s long-standing support to the Maldives, recalling the seawall construction projects undertaken between 1988 and 2006, which protected Malé from the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. The Resident Representative further emphasized that the new initiative will build on this legacy by upgrading seawalls and introducing specialized stormwater drainage systems to strengthen coastal protection.
Echoing this sentiment, Deputy Minister Mr. Miras in his remarks, highlighted the project as a critical step in addressing the growing threat of water-related disasters. The Deputy Minister noted that the improvements will provide vital protection for Malé’s residents, ensuring both their safety and the continued stability of the nation’s economic and social life.
The ceremony was attended by the Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Maldives, H.E. Ms. Ishigami Rumiko, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Finance and Planning, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure.
The Government of the Republic of Maldives conveys its sincere appreciation to the Government of Japan and JICA for their steadfast cooperation and continued support in advancing the country’s resilience and development.
