President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has committed to incorporating a raise in the allowance for single mothers in the upcoming year's budget. He made the pledge during the "Raees ge Javaab" series, which facilitates direct public interaction with the President on diverse issues.
Fathimath Afiya, a resident of Fuvahmulah City, conveyed her concerns to President Dr. Muizzu regarding government policies related to single parents' allowances and the care of orphans. In response, the President assured that increasing the allowance for single parents is a priority, and he is working to fulfill this commitment. Acknowledging the economic challenges in the Maldives, he explained the difficulty of an immediate increase but assured that the augmentation of the allowance would be incorporated into next year's budget.
Additionally, President Dr. Muizzu highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to elevate the significance given to orphans. He also emphasised the government's commitment to enhancing care and assistance for children engaged in society and those lacking proper guardianship.
The maximum monthly allowance for single parents stands at USD648. A total of 3,067 individuals have registered to receive financial assistance for poor and single parents as of 2021, according to statistics from the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA). Among them, 98% are mothers, and 2% are fathers. The current state budget allocates USD5 million specifically for single parents.