The Republic of Maldives continues to strengthen its commitment to universal eye health with the development of the National Eye Health Strategic Plan 2026–2030. Building on the launch of the World Health Organization's (WHO) SPECS 2030 initiative 2025, the strategy marks an important milestone in advancing eye health in the country.
Led by the Ministry of Health in close partnership with WHO, the strategy was developed through a participatory and consultative process involving government agencies, health professionals, the private sector, civil society organizations, and development partners.
On 13 July 2026, the Ministry of Health Family and Welfare convened a validation workshop to finalize the strategy, with technical support from WHO and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB). Representatives from government agencies, the private sector, civil society organizations, and other key stakeholders actively reviewed the final draft and provided recommendations to strengthen the strategy.
“At the end of the day, this strategy is about people. It is about detecting eye conditions early, ensuring that quality eye care reaches those who need it, preventing avoidable vision loss, and ultimately helping more Maldivians see better,", said Mr. Ibrahim Nishan Ahmed, Director General of Public Health, Health Protection Agency.
The National Eye Health Strategic Plan 2026–2030 provides a roadmap for improving access to quality eye care, strengthening eye health systems, and reducing avoidable vision impairment across the Maldives. WHO remains committed to supporting the Government of Maldives in implementing the strategy and advancing universal eye health for all.