Maldivians’ Fitr Zakat-Funded Food Aid Worth MVR 500,000 Reaches Gaza, Confirms Islamic Ministry

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced that food aid sent to assist distressed Muslims in Gaza, Palestine—using funds collected from Maldivians' Fitr Zakat—has successfully reached its destination.

Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed confirmed the delivery in a post on X, stating that food supplies worth MVR 500,000 had been delivered to Gaza. The aid was funded through Fitr Zakat payments made by Maldivians during the holy month of Ramadan.

This year marks the highest amount of Fitr Zakat collected in the Maldives to date, with a total of MVR 13,264,819 received. The previous year’s collection stood at MVR 12,594,777.92, while in 2023, MVR 12,691,506.08 was recorded. In 2022, the amount was MVR 11,669,385.10.

The MVR 500,000 food aid designated for Gaza’s children was handed over to the ISRA Association for distribution in the war-torn region.

The Islamic Ministry’s initiative reflects continued support from the Maldivian public toward global humanitarian causes, particularly in light of the ongoing crisis in Gaza.