National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) has stated the Social Council at the President’s Office is working to ease some of the difficulties faced by the public during Ramadan.
Spokesperson of NEOC Mohamed Mabrook Azeez said with the increase in demand for food during Ramadan, both Maldivians and expatriates alike will have concerns. Noting many locals and expatriates break their fasts in mosques during Ramadan, Mabrook noted arrangements to breakfasts in mosques cannot be made this year due to the outbreak of COVID-19. He said the Social Council is working to mitigate such challenges and the council, along with the Ministry of Gender, Family and Social Services will ensure availability of food for meals before dawn and break of fast.
The spokesperson stated the government and Maldives Red Crescent is also working to gather information on expatriates, their residential facilities and places that need support. He noted once the information is collected, the gender ministry will manage the delivery of food to people in need.
The government has stated the country currently has enough supply of food despite lockdown in several countries. Although there are enough staples in the country, the administration is in efforts to increase the stock.