NDA Reveals Plans to Expand Addiction Support in the Maldives

The Chairperson of the National Drug Agency (NDA), Lubna Zahir, has announced plans to train addiction counsellors to provide support for individuals affected by drug addiction across the Maldives.

In collaboration with the Health Ministry and Allied Insurance, Lubna outlined the initiative to ensure that every inhabited island has access to trained counsellors. These professionals will address the widespread issue of drug addiction within local communities.

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The NDA met with the Allied Health Council & Ministry of Health to discuss addiction professional training for NDA treatment programs. This effort addresses the Maldives' counselor deficit, notably for community rehabilitation. NDA is extending to new islands to increase service. pic.twitter.com/CgUsbf7bu7— National Drug Agency (@NDA_MV) January 7, 2025

The training programme is set to be conducted primarily online, with some sessions requiring in-person attendance. However, Lubna did not specify a timeline for its commencement.

Lubna further highlighted that the National Institute for Research and Addictions Studies has been inactive for the past 12 years. Efforts are currently underway to revitalise its operations by conducting research on drug use in the Maldives. This research will be informed by existing data within the NDA.

Meanwhile, NDA’s acting CEO, Mohamed Rashid, emphasised the agency’s focus on reintegrating drug-affected individuals into their communities.

Discussions have also explored the provision of outpatient services for drug users through existing health facilities. Rashid noted that legal measures would be enforced against those who refuse to comply with treatment protocols.

The research estimates that over 7,500 individuals use drugs in the Maldives. Lubna has previously remarked on the prevalence of drug use across all inhabited islands and the high relapse rates among individuals who undergo treatment.

The NDA’s ongoing efforts aim to address these challenges by building comprehensive frameworks for counselling and treatment, ultimately strengthening support for affected individuals nationwide.