Minister of Gender, Family, and Social Services Aishath Mohamed Didi has revealed that the government spent USD4.4 million on therapeutic treatment for 1,300 persons with disabilities. She made the statement at the function held in Alifushi, Raa Atoll, to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
Speaking at the function, Minister Aishath highlighted the efforts made by the government to help people with disabilities. She said the most important work was to allow individuals to easily receive therapeutic treatment, adding that USD4.4 million was spent on this effort in the past four years. She also highlighted the centre opened in Hulhumale’ Hospital to provide treatment to children with disabilities.
Additionally, Minister Aishath noted the business opportunities opened for people with disabilities who participated in the Riveli Exhibition and said that discussions have been held with 26 institutions in the past four years to provide more opportunities to people with disabilities. She said that the proposals will be submitted to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, to be included in a five-year strategic action plan.
At the function, President Solih presented the Riveli Thari Awards to the winners of the Riveli Exhibition. The Riveli Awards are given out to individuals and organisations that support and assist people with disabilities. The awards for 2022 were given to eight people across four categories.
The theme of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in 2022 is Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fueling an accessible and equitable world.