The "Riveli Award 2026", presented by the government to recognize individuals and organizations working for the welfare and benefit of persons with disabilities, has been awarded to a total of 8 parties.

At a ceremony held tonight at Barceló Nasandhura, the awards were presented to the recipients by First Lady Madam Sajida Mohamed, wife of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

This award is an important national initiative conducted under the Act on the Protection of Rights and Provision of Financial Assistance for Persons with Disabilities, and to implement the government's "Compassionate Community" policies aimed at facilitating economic and social opportunities for such individuals.

While nominations were opened for the Riveli Award across a total of six categories this year, 25 parties submitted nominations. The award recipients in the field of persons with disabilities include Ali Sameem (Rihiveli, Hdh. Kurinbi), Mohamed Nahil Salaam (Asrumaage, S. Maradhoo), and Aishath Shafeeq (H. Safeege). Additionally, the award in the category of persons with disabilities who bring honor and success to the Maldives in various ways was presented to Abdul Razzaq Abdul Samad (Haveereenaaz, Sh. Bilehfahi).

Ameeniyya School received the award in the education sector, while Fathimath Mohamed (Alfa, Hdh. Kulhudhuffushi) won the award in the category of technical and individual assistance provision. In the category of entities assisting in economic empowerment, the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and Conrad Maldives Rangali Island received the awards.

Furthermore, marking a historic milestone in Maldivian history where a hearing-impaired individual successfully obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology from the Maldives National University for the first time, the ministry presented a special commemorative plaque to Ismail Raahil (Endherimaage, Sh. Komandoo) to celebrate his achievement.

The Ministry of Health and Family stated that such national-level awards will provide further encouragement to persons with disabilities, serving as a major driving force in empowering them within society and facilitating equal opportunities. The ministry noted that the government's aim is to expand initiatives on behalf of persons with disabilities and establish a compassionate, inclusive environment for everyone.