Maldivian non-profit organization International Muslim Aid and Education (IMAE) has initiated a project to donate sanitary pads to women in Gaza, Palestine, as part of its ongoing pro-Palestinian activism.

The organization, founded by two National University lecturers, Dr. Shazra Ibrahim and Dr. Rana Ahmed Hameed, along with activist Aishath Shadhiya, has expanded its efforts from the streets of Malé to providing direct humanitarian assistance in Gaza.

As the people of Gaza attempt to rebuild their lives amid the ongoing ceasefire after 16 months of relentless attacks, one of the major challenges they face is the lack of proper waste disposal. To address this issue, IMAE is focusing on donating reusable cloth sanitary pads instead of disposable ones, which would contribute to waste accumulation. They have also called on the Maldivian public to assist by sewing as many pads as possible, sharing a sample pattern on their social media. The first shipment is expected to be sent within a month once production begins.

Beyond this initiative, IMAE has been actively supporting Palestinian rights. Their recent project includes publishing Soul of All Souls, a book detailing the history of Palestine from the Ottoman Caliphate to the present day. The book’s title honors Reem, a 5-year-old Palestinian child who was martyred in an Israeli attack, inspired by her grandfather’s words, Soul of My Soul. The book will be available for sale in the Maldives and international platforms.

Despite being a recently established organization, IMAE has already represented the Maldives in the International Asia Pacific Coalition for Al-Quds and Palestine. They are also working on a financial aid project for Gaza, creating a Telegram community where members can contribute a minimum of MVR 50 per month. Dr. Shazra assured that 100 percent of the funds collected will go directly to Gaza, as all organizational expenses are personally covered by the three founders.

Despite facing criticism and challenges, IMAE remains committed to advocating for Gaza. They continue to visit islands across the Maldives, engaging with women’s development committees and business leaders to raise awareness about countries supporting Israel’s attacks and the goods imported from these nations into the Maldives.