President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has extended the maternity leave period to six months. The president made the announcement at the ceremony held to mark the International Womens' Day.
During the ceremony held in Mafushi in Kaafu Atoll, President Solih revealed all female civil servants will receive a paid maternity leave up to six months, adding male civil servants will receive one month paid paternity leave. Citing the latest census, the president said the number of women leaving jobs due to various reasons have increased, adding the reason is mostly delivering a baby or marriage. Noting the importance of building a healthy society, he said shaping a child begins from the first breath.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Solih emphasised the importance given by the administration to empower women. He concluded by noting the administration aims to assist in building well-structured families.