The government has embarked on an ambitious initiative to enhance healthcare infrastructure across the nation, with contracts awarded for the development of hospitals on four islands, healthcare centres on four islands, and the Dhamanaveshi building in Kulhudhuffushi, Haa Dhaalu Atoll. The Dhamanaveshi, a department within the Ministry of Health, provides essential health services, including vaccination appointments and growth monitoring.
The Road Development Corporation (RDC) has been commissioned to develop the Dhamanaveshi building in Kulhudhuffushi, hospital facilities in Hanimaadhoo, Haa Dhaalu Atoll, and Maamigili, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, as well as a healthcare centre in Gaafaru, Kaafu Atoll. The agreement was formalised between State Minister of Health Ismail Shareef and RDC Chief Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Ali Zuhair.
The financial allocations for these projects are as follows: USD 1.49 million for the Dhamanaveshi building in Kulhudhuffushi, USD 1.73 million for the healthcare centre in Gaafaru, USD 6.80 million for the hospital in Hanimaadhoo, and USD 6.81 million for the hospital in Maamigili.
Similarly, the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has been assigned the development of hospital facilities in Vilufushi, Thaa Atoll, and Felidhoo, Vaavu Atoll, along with healthcare centres in Maaungoodhoo, Shaviyani Atoll, and Fodhdhoo, Noonu Atoll. State Minister of Health Ismail Abdulla and MTCC Chief Dep. Comm. of Police (Ret.) Ahmed Saudee signed the agreement.
The project costs are USD 1.74 million for the healthcare centre in Fodhdhoo, USD 1.76 million for the healthcare centre in Maaungoodhoo, USD 6.83 million for the hospital in Felidhoo, and USD 6.82 million for the hospital in Vilufushi.
In addition, FENAKA Corporation, a utilities provider, is responsible for developing the healthcare centre in Makunudhoo, Haa Dhaalu Atoll. The agreement was signed by State Minister of Health Ahmed Gasim and FENAKA Chief Mohamed Najah. The cost for the Makunudhoo project is USD 6.72 million.
During the contract signing ceremony, Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim underscored the significance of these projects for the respective islands and regions, noting that they will substantially enhance healthcare services. He underscored that these initiatives are part of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure nationwide.
Highlighting the primary challenge in upgrading healthcare services, Minister Ibrahim pointed to the lack of adequate space and infrastructure. The newly signed projects aim to address these issues, he said. "Without space and resources, we cannot improve services. Most islands need new buildings," Minister Ibrahim remarked. Additionally, he assured that the health ministry would collaborate closely with the contractors to ensure the prompt completion and operational readiness of the new facilities.