MVR 150 million loan from Kuwait Fund to improve healthcare on small islands

Jul 30, 2024, 7:52 AM
Signing of "Small Island Hospitals" project with Kuwait Fund. -- Photo: Finance Ministry

Signing of "Small Island Hospitals" project with Kuwait Fund. -- Photo: Finance Ministry

The Maldivian government has signed an MVR 150 million loan agreement with the Kuwait Fund to launch a major project to improve healthcare services on islands with small populations.

The loan agreement signed with the Kuwait Fund on Monday for the “Small Islands Hospital Project” is worth 3 million Kuwaiti Dinars, which amounts to MVR 150,569,316.60.

Finance Minister Dr. Mohamed Shafeeq signed the agreement on behalf of the Maldivian government. Waleed al-Bahar, acting director general, signed on behalf of the Kuwait Fund.

According to a press statement from the Finance Ministry, the project involves the development of hospitals building, electro-technical work on services, and the supply of furniture and medical equipment.

The project also includes the preparation of bid documents and provision of engineering services needed for the buildings, the ministry said.

The government said the project will reduce expenditure by Maldivians travelling for medical purposes and ensure healthcare services for both residents and tourists on small islands.

Secondary level health services will be available on the islands upon completion of the project, the government said.

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