President kick starts activities to celebrate 50th anniversary of the Maldives’ independence

President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has kick-started the activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Maldives’ independence.

President inaugurated the activities at a special Music Show entitled “Sarindha” held last night at Henveiru football stadium.

Home Minister Umar Naseer and state dignitaries participated in the event.

A special swimming event is to be held from Villingili to Male’ entitled “The Toddy tapper’s Jihad” as part of the celebrations of the 50-year anniversary (or Golden Jubilee) of the Maldivian Independence.

The media co-ordinator of the Home Ministry, Thazmeel Abdu Samad informed Miadhu Daily that the event will be held on 27th of this month and it will not be a swimming race.

Thazmeel said that this is a very special event which all capable swimmers from all around Maldives are invited to participate.

In this regard, he said that the government will provide transport and accommodation for three days in Male’ to all swimmers from the islands.

He said that this will be covered from the budget allocated for the Minivan 50. He said that the request has been sent to the Finance Ministry.

The name of the event is based on Raiveribe, the toddy tapper, a fellow ally in the historic Ali Rasgefaanu (Sultan Ali VI) battle, and a man who was known for his extraordinary feat on crossing the sea between Villimale’ (then Villingili) and Male’.

The safety measures are jointly monitored by the MNDF Coastguard, the Police, the Swimming Association, the Diving Association, as well as the Maldives Red Crescent and and volunteers.

Those who participate in the event are also properly examined to verify if they are qualified for the swim, based on their experience in swimming.