The jurisdiction of Kakolhas, an uninhabited island in Thaa atoll, has been formally handed over to the Vandhoo Island Council on 24 September 2025.

Speaking to residents in Thaa Vandhoo as part of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's ongoing tour of inhabited islands in four atolls, the President said the decision was taken to strengthen the council’s role in driving local economic growth and to provide the community with new opportunities for self-sufficiency. He assured residents that the Government would explore ways to expand revenue-generating options so that the island’s resources directly benefit Vandhoo’s people.

The handover of Kakolhas is intended to provide Vandhoo Council with new economic opportunities, with the Government stating it will consider additional concessions to ensure the island brings greater benefit to the local community.