about the island

Geography


The island of Knaditheemu lies in the North West of the atoll. The island is located at 6 26'N and 72 54'E latitude and longitude respectively. The island has a big lagoon on the northern and southern end of the island which facilitate easy harbouring. The total land area of the island is 89 hectres. Kanditheemu is given the code C1.

Population

At the end of February 2003, the total population of Knaditheemu was 1163 with 574 females and 589 males. This population is resident in 179 houses.

Population of Kanditheem at the end of 2003 in age group Male Female
Under 16 years 273 293
16 to 65 years 286 277
Over 65 years 37 14

Standard of living and economic status

The main occupation of the people of Kanditheemu is fishing. In addition, few people are engaged in occupations such as carpentry, masonry. Mid level professional workers are found in the school, health facilities, island office and island court. The island has 24 mechanised fishing vessels, 3 transport vessels which travel to Male for cargo and passenger lifting. It has 13 retail shops and 3 cafe's.

With the income earned from the various occupations, improvements seen in the living standard of the island is noteworthy. With the generous contribution of the government and community, their hard work and commitment, the island harbour has been built with water break wall and jetty. This has paved way to further develop fishing and travel for economic activity. The people of the island express satisfaction for these developments.

Health Services

Basic level health care is made available by the establishment of a health post facility jointly by the government and the island community. Health care is provided by a team consisting of a medical doctor, a Community Health Worker, Family Health Workers and trained birth attendants. A community run pharmacy service is available in the island.


Kanditheem Health centre