President Dr Mohamed Muizzu stated that the Government will develop the country inclusively, with a focus on promoting and empowering women and creating opportunities for them. He made the remarks during the Presidential Address at the opening session of the People's Majlis for 2025.
In his Presidential Address, the President highlighted efforts for women's empowerment, including the launch of a special scheme of MVR 100 million last year to provide soft loans for women in business. He noted that 60 beneficiaries had received loans in the first phase and that 25 per cent of the scheme would be reserved for differently-abled women. The President also mentioned that the second phase of the loan scheme would be implemented during the current financial year.
The President highlighted the empowerment of Women's Development Committees (WDC), noting that amendments to the Employment Act and the Decentralisation Act would be introduced this month to fulfil his commitment to find solutions for their concerns. He explained that the amendments would address issues such as pay status for existing allowances, obstacles in granting fasting allowances to women, challenges in obtaining loans from banks, and maternity leave.
The President highlighted the introduction of minimally invasive gynaecologic surgeries in the Maldives for the first time, using state-of-the-art tools to treat women-specific ailments, similar to practices in the most advanced countries. He mentioned that four surgeries have been introduced in the state. Additionally, he added that an Endometriosis and Pelvic Clinic has been set up at IGMH, offering services and treatments for endometriosis and Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are being provided through the Asanda scheme.
The President stated that 105 beneficiaries have received Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and In vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, with 84 more seeking the service. He also announced the establishment of a fertility care fund, with MVR 15 million allocated from the Government's budget, to ensure the sustainable delivery of these services.
