President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has inaugurated the first Urban Primary Healthcare Centre in the Malé region, a major step in the Administration’s efforts to strengthen the public health system. The facility, located in Maafannu, was opened this evening during a special ceremony attended by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed.
The event also marked the completion and official handover of the centre, developed under the Malé City Group of Hospitals and contracted to the Waste Management Corporation Limited (WAMCO). Following the formal handover, Abdul Razzaq Haleem, Chief Executive Officer of the Malé City Group of Hospitals, expressed gratitude to the President, noting that the establishment of such facilities will significantly expand healthcare services available to the public.
Aligned with the President’s health policy, Urban Primary Healthcare Centres focus on disease prevention, early intervention, and community-based care. The Maafannu centre will offer three core services: General Practitioner (GP) consultations; specialist and consultant referrals for advanced care needs; and the implementation of national public health programmes.
The Centre will also host a Child Health Clinic providing growth and development monitoring and routine vaccinations. Additional clinics will deliver services promoting healthy lifestyles, supporting mental well-being, and assisting individuals seeking to quit smoking.
Emphasising the Administration’s commitment to preventive healthcare, the Government has announced plans to establish five more Urban Primary Healthcare Centres in the Malé region—three in Malé and two in Hulhumalé. Health sector development remains a national priority and is set to receive the highest budget allocation in 2026.
Following the inauguration, President Muizzu and the First Lady toured the facility and met with staff. The ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Malé City Group of Hospitals, Government officials, and healthcare professionals.