News Desk
MALE’, Maldives — As of June 2024, the Maldives has recorded 14,412 individuals in its national disability register, offering a detailed snapshot of the country’s efforts to document and support its disabled population. The data, compiled by the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA), categorizes registrants into eight distinct groups, reflecting the diverse challenges faced by this island nation’s citizens.
The largest group, those with physical disabilities, numbers 4,117, with 2,299 men and 1,818 women. This category underscores the prevalence of mobility-related challenges in the Maldives, a country of scattered atolls where access to healthcare and rehabilitation services can be uneven.
Individuals with multiple disabilities form the second-largest group, totalling 3,224, with 2,090 men and 1,134 women.
Mental disabilities account for 1,889 registrants, including 1,070 men and 819 women.
Psychological disabilities, a separate category, include 1,793 individuals, with 1,071 men and 722 women.
The register also highlights sensory impairments. Hearing and speech disabilities affect 1,745 people, with a near-equal split of 922 women and 823 men. Visual impairments are reported for 1,003 individuals, including 532 men and 471 women.
Among children, autism is a significant concern, with 586 registered cases, predominantly boys (463) compared to girls (123).
Learning disabilities, though less common, affect 55 children, with 36 boys and 19 girls.
The NSPA’s efforts to categorize and track these conditions reflect a strong commitment to enhancing support systems, with the agency notably proactive in providing financial assistance and tailored services to people with disabilities. This data highlights the critical importance of comprehensive disability policies and equitable access to care across diverse communities.
