Vice President Faisal Naseem has appealed to strengthen the facilities and expand the programs providing drug rehabilitation and detoxification in the Maldives. He made this appeal to the Board members of the National Drug Agency (NDA) at a meeting held this afternoon at the President’s Office.

Speaking during the meeting, the Vice President noted the immense contributions made by NDA in carrying out the Government's mandate to rehabilitate young Maldivians suffering from addiction to narcotics. Speaking in this regard, he stated that the Strategic Action Plan (SAP) designates high priority towards rehabilitative programs for the youth in order to cultivate a society free of drug abuse.

Further discussions were held on the challenges in preventing drug trafficking into the country; effectively utilizing the budget and resources of NDA; strengthening NDA's management framework; rehabilitation efforts; and regarding the opportunities for individuals reintroduced to society following successful rehabilitation treatment.

Speaking at the meeting, board members of NDA assured the Vice President that they would restructure their work to reflect his requests. They also assured the Vice President that they would give their steadfast support to every effort in eliminating and reducing substance abuse in the country.

The meeting was attended by the Minister of Gender, Family and Social Services, Aishath Mohamed Didi, Special Adviser on Social Policy at The President’s Office, Dr Mustafa Lutfi and Minister at the President’s Office, Ahmed Sameer.