A group of MPs has submitted a proposal to transform the former Central Governorate building in Isa Town into a specialised addiction treatment unit, highlighting the urgent need to expand and modernise rehabilitation services across Bahrain.
The motion, which will be discussed tomorrow, was presented yesterday by five members of the Strategic Thinking Bloc, led by Dr Mariam Al Dhaen.
It follows recent remarks by Health Minister Dr Jalila Al Sayyed, who confirmed that plans are underway to establish an advanced centre for addiction treatment and rehabilitation.
The proposal calls for repurposing the long‑closed Central Governorate premises in Isa Town into a dedicated unit for the care and treatment of individuals struggling with drug and alcohol addiction.
The MPs argue that while current facilities are functional, they will not be sufficient to meet future demand.
Dr Al Dhaen said the idea stems from the need to anticipate population growth and the increasing national challenge posed by substance abuse.
“We appreciate the minister’s confirmation that Al Moayyad Unit at the Psychiatric Hospital is currently fulfilling its role, but we must also think ahead,” she said. “A new, modern facility is needed to strengthen national capacity and provide more comprehensive and specialised services.”
According to the Health Ministry, Al Moayyad Unit provides outpatient services four days a week, including a dedicated day for females, and includes a 15-bed detoxification ward and a 13-bed rehabilitation ward. During the first half of 2023, the unit recorded 980 outpatient visits, including 17 by females. In 2022, around 108 patients were admitted, with an average bed occupancy rate of about 50 per cent and no waiting list, as new patients are assessed within one week.
Despite these figures, Dr Al Dhaen believes that reliance on a single government facility is not a sustainable long-term solution.
“We are not questioning the efficiency of the existing unit,” she said. “But a national issue of this scale requires expansion, diversification of services, and facilities that are purpose-built for rehabilitation and reintegration.”
She explained that MPs had initially proposed establishing a centre in the Seef District, but this was deemed unnecessary by the minister because the current government addiction unit is already located in Salmaniya, within the Capital Governorate – effectively the same area.
The minister had also ruled out establishing a centre near Isa Town’s Traditional Market, citing the close proximity to residential homes and the preference of many patients and families for privacy and confidentiality.
However, Dr Al Dhaen dismissed the concerns, asserting that ‘there are homes near the Psychiatric Hospital and yet services operate there without issue.
She described Isa Town as an ideal strategic location.
“Isa Town is in the middle of the country. It is accessible from all governorates and close to other relevant facilities, including women’s and juvenile rehabilitation and correction centres and the Educational Area,” she added.
“Our responsibility is to ensure that every person seeking recovery has access to timely, dignified, and effective care.”
The proposal has the backing of Bloc president and financial and economic affairs committee chairman MP Ahmed Al Salloom, who said investing in addiction treatment is ultimately an investment in social stability.
“Rehabilitation saves families, reduces crime and lowers long-term healthcare and security costs,” Mr Al Salloom said. “Planning now for a future centre ensures that Bahrain stays ahead of emerging challenges rather than reacting to them later.”
Bloc member MP Ali Al Dossary also supported the initiative, stressing the importance of integrating treatment with education and awareness.
“Facilities must be part of a broader national strategy that includes prevention, early intervention, and community-based support,” he said.
“This proposal complements the work already being studied by the National Committee for Combating Drugs.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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