The Vaavu Atoll Hospital in Felidhoo has revealed a concerning statistic: there have been no recorded births in the atoll for the past 12 years. This gap underscores the pressing need for enhanced maternity services in the region, despite existing healthcare facilities.
The Decline of Delivery Services
According to Ahmed Nasrullah, the hospital manager, delivery services were initially offered after the facility was upgraded from a health center during former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s administration. However, the service was discontinued during President Mohamed Nasheed’s tenure due to a malfunctioning backup generator.
Since then, expectant mothers from Vaavu Atoll’s five inhabited islands have had to travel to Malé City for childbirth, a costly and inconvenient journey.
Alarming Birth Rate Statistics
The absence of local delivery services has contributed to Vaavu Atoll’s unique position in national birth statistics. Data from the 2024 Vital Statistics Report by the National Bureau of Statistics reveals:
- Vaavu Atoll recorded zero births in 2021, maintaining a 12-year trend.
- Kaafu Atoll had the second-lowest birth rate, with just two births.
- Haa Dhaalu Atoll led the nation with 514 births, followed by Raa Atoll with 395.
- Malé City accounted for 3,192 births, while other atolls collectively recorded 2,725 births.
Current Maternity Services in Vaavu
Despite the lack of delivery facilities, the hospital continues to provide essential pregnancy-related care. This includes ultrasound scans and consultations with gynecologists, pediatricians, and internal medicine specialists. However, Nasrullah emphasized that critical infrastructure gaps hinder the reinstatement of delivery services.
"The hospital needs an NICU, an operating theatre, and reliable electricity systems to safely conduct deliveries," Nasrullah stated. The estimated cost for these upgrades stands at MVR 2 million.
Vaavu Atoll is the Maldives’ least populated atoll, with just 2,688 residents. While the small population has contributed to the lack of priority in expanding healthcare services, the hospital is actively working on plans to restore delivery services.
Efforts to address these challenges align with the broader goal of ensuring equitable healthcare for all Maldivians, regardless of geographical location. Upgraded maternity facilities would not only allow for local deliveries but also improve emergency care for mothers and newborns.
