Gov’t Undertaking Unmatched Health Sector Development, Health Minister Says

Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has said that the current administration is undertaking health sector development projects on a scale not seen under previous governments.

He stated that a wide range of initiatives are being implemented to expand healthcare services nationwide, with a particular focus on reducing overdependence on the capital for medical care. He noted that many development efforts are aimed at improving and expanding health facilities across different regions of the country to ensure more equitable access to services.

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The minister emphasised the importance of a comprehensive and well-coordinated healthcare system, stating that all departments within the sector must work in coordination, as projects are interconnected and contribute collectively to overall system improvement.

He further said that since President Dr Mohamed Muizzu assumed office, health sector infrastructure development has intensified significantly. He explained that during the President’s visits to islands across the country, the deteriorating condition of existing health facilities was identified, leading to the launch of large-scale nationwide upgrades to healthcare infrastructure.

According to details shared by the minister, a total of 39 projects are currently underway to develop new hospitals. In addition, 19 new health centres are being developed, while upgrade and extension works are ongoing at 89 existing health centres. Of these projects, 12 have been completed, while 22 remain at the planning stage. Planned initiatives include the construction of eight new hospitals and five new health centres, along with nine projects focused on extensions or upgrades to existing facilities.