Laboratory services have been launched in the health center of Kan'duhulhudhoo in Gaaf Alif atoll.

The in-house laboratory was inaugurated by Chief of Staff at the President’s Office, Ali Zahir for services, on Saturday

The Ministry of Health revealed via a statement on Saturday that the machinery and other gear to equip the laboratory were transferred to the health center on 22 September and that the service has since officially been launched.

With a population of 500, Kanduhulhudhoo residents previously had to travel to obtain laboratory services from Gemanafushi island in the same atoll as well as Gadhdhoo island in Gaaf Dhaal atoll before the service was launched in the island. The two islands lie at least 20 minutes away, by boat.

Some of the other islands that have in-house laboratories in the atoll include Dhaandhoo, Kolamaafushi, Dhevvadhoo and Villingili.