The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) has announced that 24 individuals have received bone marrow transplants during the first two years of the current Administration, in line with the President’s pledge to support at least ten transplants annually.

According to updated figures, five patients received transplants in 2023, followed by nine in 2024, and ten so far in 2025, bringing the total to 24 recipients. NSPA stated that the Government has allocated MVR 12.66 million to support these procedures over the two-year period.

Under an agreement between the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and the Ministry of Health, children requiring bone marrow transplantation are sent abroad for treatment with financial assistance from the Zakat Fund, which continues to play a central role in supporting families who cannot afford the high cost of overseas medical care.

The initiative aligns with the President’s commitment to ensure essential treatment for thalassaemia patients, a long-standing public health priority for the Maldives. In conjunction with this policy, the Government has relocated the Maldivian Blood Service, previously the Thalassaemia Centre, to the Orange Hiyaa building in Hulhumalé to improve service accessibility and capacity.

Officials underscore that the Administration remains committed to expanding support for patients requiring bone marrow transplantation and strengthening national systems that provide long-term care for individuals affected by thalassaemia.