The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) and Aasandha Company have officially inaugurated a joint office in Addu City’s Hithadhoo.

The facility was inaugurated on Tuesday during a ceremony officiated by the Minister of Social and Family Development, Dr Aishath Shiham, alongside NSPA Chief Executive Officer Heena Waleed and Aasandha Managing Director Aminath Zeeniya.

The inauguration was attended by Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan, Members of Parliament representing Addu City constituencies, and senior officials from various Government institutions.

Aasandha stated that the establishment of this office fulfils a key pledge by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to bring social services closer to the public and reduce the administrative burden on residents living outside the capital.

Prior to the opening of this branch, residents of Addu Atoll and the surrounding southern atolls frequently encountered logistical challenges and delays when accessing NSPA and Aasandha services.

The new office is designed to streamline these processes, allowing citizens to submit documents and seek assistance more efficiently without the need for long-distance travel to Malé.

In her remarks at the ceremony, Minister Dr Aishath Shiham emphasised that the Government’s policy remains focused on dismantling the historical concentration of services in the capital.

She added that the new office will provide a lasting solution to difficulties faced by residents in accessing social protection assistance and Aasandha services.