National prosperity to translate into personal, community progress, says president

National prosperity will translate more directly into personal and community advancement in 2026, President Dr Irfaan Ali said in his New Year’s Day message.
In his address to the nation, he outlined plans to improve public services, increase incomes, and expand infrastructure.

Ali said public services would be strengthened through a national digital backbone to make government interactions simpler, faster, and more transparent, while services would move closer to communities.
He said disposable income would rise through direct support, higher wages, and reduced taxation, alongside the rollout of a national electronic identification system.
Housing development will accelerate, with increased investment in roads, lighting, recreational facilities, manufacturing, tourism, and the creative industries, he said.

Plans also include bringing gas to shore to generate cheaper electricity, expanding healthcare and water access, improving road safety, and strengthening the country’s security services.
“These are not promises for some distant future. These are plans already in motion,” he said.
The president also said youth development would remain central to national progress, alongside a commitment to unity, sovereignty, peace, and prudent governance, as the country navigates global uncertainty.