The Kendhikulhudhoo Island Council has announced plans to promote the island as "The Mangrove Island" to boost local tourism, capitalising on the island's unique natural assets and creating opportunities for both residents and visitors.

During his visit to Noonu Kendhikulhudhoo on February 29, 2024, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu met with the Island Council and pledged support for eco-tourism initiatives. He emphasised the importance of enabling residents to establish small and medium-sized enterprises that leverage the island's natural beauty. This, he noted, would not only enhance the visitor experience but also create sustainable economic opportunities for the community.

Kendhikulhudhoo Council Member Hassan Mohamed shared with state media that the island is currently being promoted at ITB Berlin, one of the world's largest travel and tourism trade fairs, in Germany. He revealed that homestay permits for tourists have already been granted, and development is underway for luxury guest villas with a capacity of 70 beds. Additionally, a 70-bed city hotel is progressing rapidly, with one section expected to open this year.

Hassan highlighted the economic benefits of local tourism, particularly for the island's youth, who currently work at distant resorts: "Most of our youth work at different resorts. With this city hotel and local tourism, they will have the opportunity to work on their own island, close to their families."

He added that 70 per cent of the jobs created by these establishments would be reserved for Kendhikulhudhoo residents, with special priority given to women for roles in the villas and city hotel.

Kendhikulhudhoo is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and natural charm. Its nine lakes, an uncommon sight in the Maldives with three spanning 400 to 3,000 feet, sustain mangroves, rare birds, diverse fish species, and lush vegetation, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

The 247-hectare island, located east of Noonu Henbadhoo, is covered in palm trees with exceptionally fertile soil contributing to its dense greenery. Its vast mangroves and wetlands, among the largest in the Maldives, provide critical habitat for protected wildlife.

Kendhikulhudhoo's protected wetlands support a diverse ecosystem for various bird and wildlife species, shelter notable plant species, and serve as vital coastal nesting grounds for turtles. Protected birds include the Cattle Egret, Common Sandpiper, Black-crowned Night Heron, Yellow Bittern, Grey Heron, and Greater Sand Plover, with seabirds like the Black-naped Tern and White-tailed Tropicbird frequently visiting.

The island's ecological significance extends to its diverse mangrove species, including Small-leaved Orange Mangrove, Red Mangrove, and Yellow Mangrove. These mangroves yield edible fruits known locally as Kuhlhavah, contributing to the island's food resources.

While sustainable aquaculture practices operate within Kendhikulhudhoo's mangrove ecosystem, ongoing conservation initiatives remain crucial for safeguarding this fragile environment. The island's beaches also serve as crucial nesting grounds for turtles, making preservation efforts vital for maintaining their population.