President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to ensuring that children with thalassaemia receive equitable access to national rights and opportunities, pledging to address long-standing challenges faced by affected families. In an address marking World Thalassaemia Day, President Muizzu stressed that the government must take decisive action to improve care and support for children living with the condition, underscoring the need for both words and actions to reflect this principle.
Thalassaemia remains one of the most pressing health concerns in the Maldives. The president noted that the country has one of the highest prevalence rates of the condition relative to its population globally, with approximately one in every 18 Maldivians carrying the genetic trait. The scale of the issue, he said, demands greater public awareness and expanded access to treatment. That responsibility, he noted, falls on the relevant authorities, who must ensure consistent care and safeguard the health of affected children.
The president's remarks also reflected promises made during the 2023 presidential election, when he pledged to improve care for children with thalassaemia. He assured that his administration would take concrete steps to fulfil those commitments, vowing to rectify issues that have been neglected for years. Beyond policy, President Muizzu said he is personally overseeing matters related to thalassaemia treatment, listening to the experiences of children and their families.
While healthcare remains a priority, the president stressed that medical intervention alone is not enough. He argued that children with thalassaemia must be afforded the same opportunities as their peers, a principle that must be demonstrated through tangible action.
Inclusive education, fostering kind interactions, and creating pathways for economic participation, he said, are essential measures in advancing equality. Ensuring that children with thalassaemia are free from discrimination, he added, is a crucial step toward a more inclusive and compassionate nation.
For children living in the outer islands, the president noted that the difficulties are even greater. He acknowledged the hardships they endure daily, pointing to the need for stronger healthcare infrastructure and more accessible treatment options. That responsibility, he said, must be shared, urging all relevant stakeholders to play their part in strengthening the treatment system and ensuring that no child is left behind.
The president also appealed to the public, urging Maldivians to donate blood and highlighting the profound impact such contributions can have. He called for solidarity with affected children, encouraging citizens to extend compassion and support to those confronting the difficulties of thalassaemia.
President Muizzu also stressed that nationwide participation is essential in alleviating their struggles. The resilience and courage of children battling the condition, he said, should serve as an inspiration to all. The president also assured that his administration would prioritise resolving issues related to thalassaemia patients. The government's efforts to rectify long-standing shortcomings in thalassaemia care, he pledged, would bring much-needed relief and satisfaction to affected children and their families.