The Government is planning to roll out regular fitness activities in all inhabited islands by the end of this year as part of efforts to promote healthier lifestyles and prevent lifestyle-related diseases, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu has said.

Speaking to State media, Minister Rafiu said the nationwide expansion would be carried out under the “Hashiheyo Raajje” initiative, which was launched in November 2024 to encourage physical activity and build a healthier society. He said the programme is currently being implemented across six zones, with training ongoing for facilitators and health professionals involved in delivering the activities at island level.

The Minister said the Government aims to establish a sustainable routine of moderate physical activity in every island, with sessions lasting between 45 minutes to one hour, conducted at least three days a week. He noted that while the programme has already been introduced in several islands and that efforts are underway to scale up implementation nationwide.

Minister Rafiu said the initiative is designed to be accessible and non-burdensome, adding that regular participation would help individuals build healthier habits over time. He said the programme is expected to contribute not only to improved physical fitness, but also to overall wellbeing, productivity and quality of life.

The “Hashiheyo Raajje” programme was inaugurated on 5 November 2024 in Kulhudhuffushi City by Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef as part of the Government’s health promotion strategy. The programme is structured around community-based activities aimed at increasing daily physical movement and reducing the risks associated with sedentary lifestyles.

In his Presidential Address this year, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu emphasised the role of sports and physical activity in preventing non-communicable diseases, stating that expanding access to fitness opportunities is a key policy objective. The Administration has also prioritised improvements in sports infrastructure and human resource development in the health and fitness sector as part of its long-term public health agenda.