President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has ratified the 14th Amendment to the Decentralisation Act, introducing significant changes to the role and operations of Women’s Development Committees (WDCs) across islands and cities.

The Amendment, proposed by the Government, was passed during the sixth sitting of the first session of the 2025 Parliamentary term on Tuesday, February 18, 2025. It aims to strengthen and clarify the responsibilities of WDCs, enhance their operational measures, and establish structured mechanisms for administrative support.

One of the key provisions addresses funding challenges by introducing clear, structured procedures for allocating Government grants to local councils. It also sets definitive guidelines for how WDCs should manage and utilise these funds. Additionally, the Amendment reinforces the role of local councils and the Local Government Authority (LGA) in ensuring that WDCs have access to essential resources, training, and facilities.

A notable addition to the law is the introduction of Ramadan allowances for committee members. Any WDC member who does not receive a Ramadan allowance under another law will now be entitled to MVR 3,000 before the start of each Ramadan month.

In addition to these key revisions, the Amendment tackles various implementation challenges that have emerged under the current law.

Now ratified, it has been officially published in the Government Gazette and is set to take effect.