The Ministry of Finance has re-opened bidding for the hospital development projects to be carried out with financial assistance from the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development.
The projects were re-opened for bidding after making changes to the designs. The projects consist of developing 30-bed hospitals on seven islands. The hospitals will be built on Hanimaadhoo in Haa Dhaalu Atoll, Milandhoo in Shaviyani Atoll, Velidhoo in Noonu Atoll, Thulusdhoo in Kaafu Atoll, Maamigili in Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, Felidhoo in Vaavu Atoll and Vilufushi in Thaa Atoll.
The finance ministry stated that the changes to the design of the hospitals have also altered the costs. The ministry will be carrying out the bidding process under the international competitive bidding process and interested parties are required to submit proposals by January 5.
The government is making efforts to strengthen the health sector in the Maldives. Ministry of Health said a total of 21 Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) projects were completed in the past four years including projects to increase the space of hospitals and health centres. The budget for next year includes USD36 million for the construction of new buildings for health centres and hospitals on various islands in the country.