the maldives journal, day 4: waste and wickets

Habiba Mukhtar, Wednesday 15th November, Morning

Our fourth day kicked off with rain while we drove to Gan Harbour. From there we took

speedboats to the island Kunahandhoo through a calm sea, which we were told would be the case since there was no wind with the earlier rain. Our goal was to explore the site of the

planned Island Waste Management Centre and to understand the island Kunahandhoo better. Although plans are already in motion, our designs could potentially aid or inspire locals, the council, or anyone else facing similar issues seen on Kunahandhoo.

When we arrived at Kunahandhoo, we were warmly greeted by Kunahandhoo’s vice-president. Through him we learnt how the island was affected by the 2004 tsunami and what means and precautions are now in place. The mangroves, we learnt, are of particular importance as they break incoming water and reduce damage to the island. We made our way through the island and got a taste of local culture; fruits plucked fresh from the trees, beautiful flowers, and we got to see the palm thatching weaving process. Eventually we reached the location site which we explored and documented.

Upon returning to our starting point at the stage across from the harbour and mosque, Kunahandhoo’s girls cricket team was ready to welcome us. The bright young girls handed us woven palm leaf bouquets containing a variety of bright, vivid, and vibrant flowers. The welcoming ceremony was accompanied with traditional song, dance, and drums. The girls' cricket team played against our men and of course won, fully suited and booted in uniform in the midday sun. The islanders are also extremely hospitable and kind. Not only was water provided every hour or so by scooterists, but we also enjoyed a fully cooked lunch to end our visit. As we left the harbour in our boats, the team, councillors and other members of the community were there to bid us farewell.