According to NDA, its Fanaaru program has been instrumental in reducing the waitlist, with 65 percent of clients now receiving treatment.
The number of individuals on the waitlist for drug addiction treatment has been reduced through efforts to expedite treatment for those ordered by the Drug Court.
Previously, there were 700 people sentenced to community-based treatment by the Drug Court from 2018 to December last year, with significant delays in treatment causing rising complaints.
In response, National Drug Agency (NDA) released a report detailing its progress over the past six months, during which 446 individuals have received treatment. However, 254 people have not yet been treated due to various reasons.
According to NDA, its Fanaaru program has been instrumental in reducing the waitlist, with 65 percent of clients now receiving treatment.
Discussions are also underway to extend treatment to individuals in Correctional Service custody, allowing them to receive treatment while incarcerated.
Efforts to expand community-based rehabilitation and reintegration are ongoing, enabling individuals to continue their treatment from their home islands, NDA said, adding that treatment is currently provided from 110 islands.
NDA has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Malaysia's Solace Asia CDN BHD, a rehabilitation center, to authorize the facility for Maldivians seeking treatment abroad. Additionally, NDA is working on the budget for the construction of a wellness center in Hulhumale' under foreign assistance.
Key achievements of NDA:
- Collaborating with the Health Centre in Gaafu Alifu atoll Dhaandhoo to introduce detoxification services
- Strengthening security at the Drug Offender Remand Center in Kaafu atoll Himmafushi, in collaboration with police
- Offering individuals who failed to obtain treatment through the Drug Court system an opportunity to seek rehabilitation through the prison system
- Negotiating with state-owned companies and the private sector to secure employment opportunities for those who have completed rehabilitation, with discussions underway to sign MoUs with these party's to facilitate employment opportunities.
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