Health
Dharumavantha Hospital has revealed that out of 35 successful cases of IVF performed through its National Fertility Centre, 27 babies have been born so far. Amidst an extreme shortage of essential medicines across the Maldives leading to an increase in public complaints, Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim stated that by November 2026, arrangements will be made to import and provide all essential medicines through "State Pharma", a company established by separating pharmacies from STO to resolve the issue. Regarding the issue of medication shortages in pharmacies, the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has instructed pharmacies to stock at least 80 percent of the medicines included in the Revised Essential Medicines List within the upcoming six months.
Dharumavantha Hospital has revealed that 27 babies have been successfully born so far through the IVF (In-Vitro Fertilisation) treatment provided at its Fertility Centre. Under this service, the IVF process of 35 individuals has been successful over the past period, while treatments for an additional eight individuals are currently ongoing. Bringing hope to families facing fertility difficulties, the very first baby conceived via IVF through this centre was born in January of this year. This achievement is an important advancement in expanding fertility treatment services in the Maldives and paving the way for many people to obtain such services while staying in their own country.
On 18 September 2026, the public and concerned parties expressed major concerns and complaints, stating that many essential medicines are unavailable in the Maldives and that the country's situation is deteriorating extremely. Citizens noted that as pharmacies and healthcare centers run out of vital medications needed for common and chronic illnesses, patients' lives are being endangered and their conditions are worsening further. Calling the prolonged delay in finding a quick solution to this issue a major challenge to the country's healthcare system, relevant authorities are being urged to take immediate action.