IGMH's mosque has officially reopened last week, ahead of Ramadan, after being closed for four years.
The mosque - opened in the same location as before but with expansions and renovations - was inaugurated by the Islamic Minister, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed.
The closure of IGMH's old mosque took place in September 2019 during the administration of former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. At that time, it was explained that the closure was placed in effect after two rooms at Dharumavantha Hospital were allocated to facilitate separate prayer spaces for men and women.
Hence, the location of the mosque's land has been utilized as storage for old items from both IGMH and Dharumavantha Hospital until now.
Ibrahim Abdul Razzaq Haleem, CEO of Dharumavantha Hospital, told Mihaaru that with the mosque reopened, 280 people could pray at a time.
"Now, one section of the mosque will have air conditioning. The outdoor area will also be spacious, providing room for those wishing to offer Taraweeh prayers during this Ramadan. Additionally, there will be designated areas for separate prayers for men and women, along with a dedicated space for ablution (wudu)," Haleem explained.
Haleem mentioned that the reconstruction of the mosque received support from various generous individuals, and IGMH funds also contributed to the project.
"There was no expenditure from the IGMH budget for this project. IGMH will handle the ongoing maintenance of the facility. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has also pledged assistance to the mosque," the CEO stated.
Haleem mentioned that during the absence of a mosque, IGMH staff and visitors to the hospital resorted to offering prayers in available spaces, such as waiting areas near different wards.
Concerns have been raised for the past five years regarding the absence of a mosque at IGMH.
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