President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has unveiled an ambitious plan to enhance the Maldives’ healthcare sector, aiming to provide high-quality, affordable medical services that reduce the need for Maldivians to seek treatment abroad.
Speaking in the second edition of the Rayyithunnaa Eku podcast, an initiative designed to foster public engagement in governance, the President emphasized the urgent need to improve healthcare services in the Greater Malé region, where more than half of the country’s population resides. However, he assured that this focus would not come at the expense of other regions, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to upgrading hospitals and health centers across all inhabited islands.
As part of these efforts, the President highlighted ongoing expansion work at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), the country’s largest state-run hospital. The project includes a new 75-bed facility, featuring 44 general ward beds, 15 High Dependency Unit (HDU) beds, and 14 private rooms. The new wing is expected to be operational by May this year.
Additionally, the Government is advancing efforts to upgrade Hulhumalé Hospital, which was recently reclassified as a tertiary healthcare facility. Plans are also underway for a new 100-bed tertiary hospital in Vilimalé, which will be constructed with support from the Chinese government.
Beyond infrastructure development, President Muizzu outlined plans for specialized hospitals focused on women and children’s healthcare, cancer treatment, and thalassemia care. He also underscored the importance of strengthening public health initiatives and implementing environmental healthcare policies to improve overall well-being and reduce hospital visits.
Acknowledging the difficulties Maldivians face when traveling abroad for medical treatment, the President reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring access to advanced medical services within the country.
