The Health Ministry announced today that 22 children are currently awaiting bone marrow transplants.

A ministry spokesperson revealed that 14 children were sent abroad for transplants last year. Of those, seven have successfully completed the procedure, while the other seven are still receiving treatment overseas.

The ministry added that six children have since returned to the Maldives, though one tragically passed away. Three of the remaining six are scheduled to return next month, while the other four continue their treatment.

Looking ahead, 10 more children are set to travel abroad for bone marrow transplants this year. Five have already undergone specialist evaluations, with preparations underway for their procedures.

The initiative aligns with a presidential pledge by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to provide sustainable, free bone marrow transplants for children with thalassemia.

An agreement signed in February last year between the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and the Ministry of Health allocates funding through the Zakat Fund for 10 transplants annually. Up to MVR 1 million per child is provided under this program. Currently, 22 children remain on the waiting list for transplants.