The government is slated to launch a nationwide campaign this Saturday to address the escalating burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), in a coordinated effort to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce long-term health risks across the country.
Titled ‘Dhulhaheyo Dhiriulhun, Ufaaveri Mujuthamau’, translated as ‘healthy lifestyle, happy society’, the initiative reflects a national commitment to public health. It will be implemented through joint efforts by the Ministry of Health, the Health Protection Agency (HPA), and other relevant institutions.
The campaign arises from growing concern over the prevalence of NCDs, which have become deeply embedded in Maldivian society due to entrenched dietary and behavioural patterns. Officials have framed the initiative as a strategic response to these risks, with a focus on community-level engagement.
Speaking on PSM News’ Raajje Miadhu programme, Abdulla Muaz Adam, Public Health Coordinator at the HPA, underscored the campaign’s central objective. “The fundamental objective of this campaign is to strategically overcome non-communicable diseases by implementing island-level activities that safeguard the public from the pervasive risks established within our society,” he said.
He outlined the operational framework, which centres on decentralised planning and institutional collaboration. “Consequently, this programme is designed strategically; it involves formulating specific island-level plans detailing actionable interventions that can be executed within a defined timeframe, through collaboration with citizens and all relevant institutions.”
The HPA has highlighted the importance of tailoring activities to the distinct characteristics of each inhabited island. This locally responsive approach, officials said, is essential to fostering sustainable behavioural change and embedding health-conscious habits within communities.
In addition to geographic specificity, the campaign will address the needs of different age groups. Activities have been designed to promote healthy living among children, youth, and the elderly, with the aim of instilling preventative health practices across the life course.