Islamic Development Bank provides USD 400K to strengthen primary healthcare in Maldives

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has provided USD 400,000 (MVR 6.16 million) in grant support to the Maldives health sector.  

The funding was secured through the World Health Organization’s Health Impact Investment Platform (HIIP) and will be used to strengthen primary healthcare, improve referral systems between health centers and regional hospitals, and build human resource capacity.  

According to the Ministry of Health, the grant will also support the development of health information systems and help address climate-related challenges in the sector.  

The announcement was made during the Maldives National Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Forum held at Kurumba Resort on Saturday and Sunday.  

Maldives’ first National Forum on Universal Health Coverage concluded today. Minister @ANazim2019 highlighted the Government’s commitment to strengthening PHC, integrating mental health & elderly care, and expanding services under the Health Equity Policy. #UHC@WHOMaldives pic.twitter.com/X0qaQbaE84

— Ministry of Health (@MoHmv) December 14, 2025

More than 100 participants attended the forum, including representatives from the Maldivian health sector, private healthcare providers, development banks such as the World Bank and IsDB, and international organizations.  

Universal health coverage is defined as ensuring access to adequate healthcare for all individuals, regardless of where they live.  

The forum focused on strengthening health services, refining health policies, and building resilient systems at both individual and community levels to achieve national health goals.