Work Completed to Begin Construction of Maldives’ First Cancer Hospital, Says Health Minister

The government has completed all administrative work required to establish the Maldives’ first dedicated cancer hospital, according to Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim. 

Speaking at the ‘Ahaa Forum’, a platform for direct public engagement with government officials, the minister said that practical work on the hospital is expected to begin soon.

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Minister Nazim stated that the government attaches high importance to improving access to cancer treatment. He confirmed that the necessary paperwork, including technical feasibility assessments and concept development, has been finalised. The government is currently seeking financial assistance to begin the implementation phase.

The minister noted that the hospital project is part of the government’s broader effort to enhance cancer care and prevention. Measures introduced to reduce cancer risk in the population include a generational smoking ban, the prohibition of e-cigarette imports, and increased import duties on conventional cigarettes.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had earlier announced that work on the cancer hospital would commence this year. The initiative was highlighted during the Republic Day celebrations last year, and funds have been allocated in the current year’s national budget.

During the same forum, the Health Minister also discussed plans to establish a national register of patients receiving treatment for chronic illnesses. He said that a special centre will be established to dispense medicines to those listed in the register, aiming to address the difficulties faced by long-term patients in accessing essential medication.

Minister Nazim noted that some medications are prescription-only, and long-term strategies include formal registration of patients and a structured supply mechanism through hospitals. He said that major hospitals in both Malé and the atolls have already started issuing medicines to such patients directly.

To support this system, the government is strengthening medicine supply through the State Trading Organisation (STO), improving pharmaceutical governance, and enhancing the capabilities of staff responsible for handling medication. Additional efforts include reforms to the Aasandha prescription portal, updates to treatment guidelines, improvements to the regulatory framework of the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA), and further training for STO pharmacists.