Malé, Maldives – 22 May 2025 – In an exciting update to their ongoing partnership, Stream Foundation and Ooredoo Maldives have reported significant progress in their efforts to monitor the Maldives Coral Institute’s coral reef restoration project off the coast of Fulhadhoo Island.
Initially formed in early 2023, the partnership has led to the deployment of advanced underwater cameras to
provide near real-time monitoring of the reef's ecosystem. This initiative focuses on documenting fish species, coral health, and the overall biodiversity of the reef.
The cutting-edge monitoring system, powered by Ooredoo Maldives’ high speed connectivity, even in remote oceanic environments, has provided a wealth of data since its launch. In 2024, the cameras observed 15,728 individual fish, averaging 43 fish sightings per day, which have provided valuable insights into the health of local fish populations. The highest daily fish count was recorded on April 20, 2024, with 402 fish spotted in a single day—a testament to the rich biodiversity surrounding Fulhadhoo’s coral reefs. wavering. We will uphold these principles and actively share our progress as we work towards building a sustainable future.
Beyond fish populations, the cameras have also revealed compelling footage of the ongoing environmental challenges faced by the coral reef. While coral bleaching events were documented, signs of coral recovery have also been regularly captured, offering hope for the resilience of these vital ecosystems. These dynamic changes are essential to understanding the health of the coral reefs and the impacts of climate change, providing a crucial opportunity for targeted conservation efforts.
Ooredoo’s role in providing seamless and uninterrupted internet access to underwater cameras has been instrumental in the
success of this project. This state-of-the-art connectivity enables real-time transmission of critical marine data, showcasing the strength of Ooredoo’s network in overcoming the challenges of oceanic environments. Researchers, conservationists, and local authorities now have instant access to insights about the marine ecosystem, allowing for quicker responses and data-driven conservation efforts.
“We are pleased to witness the positive impact of our partnership with Stream Foundation and the Maldives Coral Institute,” said Ooredoo Maldives CEO, Khalid Al-Hamadi. “This initiative is part of Ooredoo Maldives’ ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, leveraging technology to drive positive change and protect marine biodiversity, which is crucial for local communities and the nation’s tourism industry. We are proud to see how our network capabilities contribute to such an important cause, reinforcing our belief that technology can empower sustainability.”
As the partnership enters its third year, Ooredoo Maldives, Stream Foundation, and the Maldives Coral Institute are exploring
opportunities to expand this pioneering marine monitoring technology to other coral reefs and other marine ecosystems across the Maldives. By strengthening conservation efforts with innovative connectivity solutions, Ooredoo remains committed to using technology as a force for good.
About Ooredoo
Ooredoo is a leading international communications provider, delivering high-quality telecommunications and internet services across a range of markets globally.
About Stream Foundation
Stream Foundation, a Swiss-based nonprofit organization, uses cutting-edge technology to monitor marine ecosystems and promote the protection of the world’s oceans.
About Maldives Coral Institute
The Maldives Coral Institute is dedicated to researching and restoring coral reefs in the Maldives, working to preserve the marine biodiversity and health of the region’s ecosystems.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to receive email updates. We'll keep you in the loop on all the ways you can help make a difference for the future of our ocean.
