Six thalassemia children to travel to India for bone marrow transplant with financial support from the Zakat Fund

Six thalassemia children who cannot afford a bone marrow transplant are scheduled to travel to India for treatment with financial assistance from the Zakat Fund.

This is the first group of thalassemia patients to depart Maldives for treatment this year.

Health, Family and Welfare Minister Geela Ali, Maldives Zakat House Director General Imthiaau Abbas, and Male City Group of Hospitals (MCGH) CEO Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem attended the ceremony.

Speaking at the ceremony, officials from the relevant agencies briefed parents on the importance of the programme and the financial support being extended through the Zakat Fund.

According to Zakat House, MVR 2.5 million was deposited with NSPA last month to cover the expenses of eligible children. The assistance is provided under the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and the Ministry of Health on February 21, 2024.

Today, Maldives Zakat House, along with @MoHmv, and other stakeholders, met with parents of six thalassemia patients who are set to travel to India as this year's first batch for bone marrow transplantation with financial support from the Zakat Fund. pic.twitter.com/J4quEGrJSa

— Maldives Zakat House (@ZakatHouseMv) July 11, 2026

The Zakat Fund has been providing financial support for bone marrow transplants since 2014.

Bone marrow transplant is the only permanent treatment that eliminates the need for regular blood transfusions in thalassemia patients. The procedure significantly improves quality of life and prevents long-term complications associated with the disease.

A total of 10 children have been approved for treatment this year. In addition to the six children departing in the first batch, administrative arrangements are underway for the remaining four.