Over KD1 mln collected for Gaza in hours
Iman Al-Enezi, acting Director of the Charitable Societies and Endowments Department at the Ministry of Social Affairs, announced the launch of the campaign on Sunday morning. Al-Enezi revealed in a statement to Al- Akhbar Channel that the campaign is in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the participation of the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) and more than 51 accredited charities. She said a special link for donations had been opened, as announced by the ministry on its social media platforms, while praising the great response the campaign has been witnessing since its launch.
She added that this campaign is an urgent response to the escalating humanitarian needs in the Gaza Strip, to provide food, medical supplies, and relief support to those affected. She disclosed that fundraising will continue until Tuesday through official channels approved by each participating organization. She clarified that at the end of the campaign, participating societies and charities are required to purchase food supplies exclusively from the Kuwait Flour Mills and Bakeries Company, according to Cabinet Resolution No. 1461. She said all in-kind donations will be handed over to KRCS; which will be responsible for delivering them to the areas surrounding Palestine, in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Defense through the air bridge designated for this purpose. She also stressed that this initiative, implemented under the directives of the political leadership, is supported directly by Minister of Social, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah.
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Arab Times
7 hours ago
- Arab Times
Kuwait, Netherlands back dialogue for international stability
KUWAIT CITY, Aug 6: Dutch Ambassador to Kuwait Laurens Westhoff described his five-year diplomatic experience in the country as 'rich and full of opportunities.' Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Westhoff reflected on his tenure, which began during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. He revealed, 'I arrived in Kuwait at a difficult time -- during the COVID-19 pandemic. Direct communication is vital in diplomacy, and that was initially a challenge. However, I was impressed by the Kuwaiti government's efficiency in managing the health crisis.' Throughout his tenure, Westhoff worked towards strengthening the longstanding ties between the Netherlands and Kuwait. 'Over the past five years, I have sought to strengthen the relationship between our two countries, which dates back more than 60 years. In 2024, we celebrated the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Netherlands and Kuwait,' he added. He pointed out the emergence of new areas of bilateral cooperation, particularly in the energy transition sector. 'We launched an important initiative on transitioning from oil dependency to alternative energy sources, such as solar and hydrogen. This is in collaboration with Kuwait University, Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), and Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR), along with Dutch experts,' he disclosed. He also expounded on the shared geopolitical realities of the two nations. 'Both the Netherlands and Kuwait are relatively small countries surrounded by larger neighbors — by Britain, Germany, and France; you by Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Iran. This compels us to rely on dialogue, diplomacy and mutual understanding to ensure stability and cooperation,' he stated. He confirmed that trade relations between the two countries have remained robust. He said 'in 2024, Dutch exports to Kuwait reached approximately €845 million, while imports – primarily crude oil – totaled around €1.6 billion through the Port of Rotterdam. This brings the overall volume of bilateral trade to roughly €2.4 billion. The Netherlands also holds a leading position among European countries in terms of direct investments in Kuwait. Dutch investments amount to KD488 million; mostly channeled through companies and investment funds in various sectors like oil, airport infrastructure, information technology, energy, and agriculture.' He praised the growing appreciation among Kuwaitis for the Netherlands as a travel destination. 'Around 14,000 Kuwaiti tourists visit the Netherlands annually. This year, the number reached 7,000 by mid-year alone. Despite our not-so-ideal weather, Kuwaitis seem to enjoy the cold and rain,' he said. He also highlighted the appeal of the Netherlands' compact size, cultural offerings, and ease of travel. 'Although our country is only twice the size of Kuwait, it offers a unique tourism experience— with world-class museums and artworks by Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Vermeer—all within short distances,' he elaborated. On education, Westhoff acknowledged the room for growth. He stated that the number of Kuwaiti students in the Netherlands is modest compared to countries like Canada, due to language and education system differences. 'Nevertheless, we are working hard to develop this aspect. Every Kuwaiti who studies in the Netherlands becomes a cultural ambassador for our bilateral relations,' he asserted. On defense ties, he revealed that training programs for the Kuwaiti naval forces occasionally take place in the Netherlands. There have also been high-level reciprocal visits, including a visit by Undersecretary of the Kuwaiti Ministry of Defense Sheikh Abdullah Al-Sabah two years ago. He added that the Dutch Foreign Minister is scheduled to meet with his Kuwaiti counterpart this October. On air travel between the two nations, Westhoff commented on KLM's service suspension. He explained that 'KLM's decision was not related to Kuwait, but rather due to operational challenges at Schiphol Airport. Meanwhile, Kuwait Airways continues to operate three weekly flights to Amsterdam, maintaining strong connectivity.' He also clarified the current visa processing issues. He said the recent changes in visa appointment procedures were introduced by VFS, not the embassy, indicating these adjustments aim to curb the selling of appointments by intermediaries and to ensure transparency. He then revealed that his successor, Veeresh Ramsukh, will assume duties in early September. 'He is a seasoned diplomat of Indian origin, born in Suriname and raised in the Netherlands. Like me, he does not speak Arabic, but that has not been a barrier; as Kuwaitis are proficient in English,' he asserted. In his closing remarks, Westhoff expressed heartfelt appreciation for Kuwait and its people. 'I will miss Kuwait deeply. This experience has enriched my life, and I hope I have contributed to strengthening the ties between our two countries. The Diwaniya is a wonderful idea—welcoming people spontaneously and without formality. My wife and I are even considering starting a similar tradition in our hometown in eastern Holland: opening our home at specific times to friends and neighbors, with coffee and food, just like in Kuwait.'
Kuwait Times
12 hours ago
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait advances environmental vision; execution in early stages
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Kuwait has also expanded coordination with China through memorandums of understanding focused on low-carbon systems, renewable energy, waste recycling, and wastewater treatment infrastructure. These agreements are expected to support the country's broader environmental targets under its 'New Kuwait 2035' vision. Carbon neutral by 2060 In line with that vision, the EPA in November 2023 announced the 'Low Carbon Strategy 2050' in cooperation with the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and other state sectors. Kuwait became the second Gulf country to submit such a strategy, reaffirming its commitment to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. The strategy outlines Kuwait's long-term goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060 through expanded use of renewable energy and reduced reliance on fossil fuels. As of now, implementation details have not been made public. Progress has included the release of Kuwait's first State of the Environment report, published last year in cooperation with UNEP. The report offers an in-depth review of seven key issues: climate change, waste management, land and water resources, air quality, biodiversity, and marine and coastal environments. It also examines Kuwait's institutional and legal environmental frameworks, though follow-up actions on its findings have not yet been disclosed. The EPA has since announced four strategic environmental projects: The national environmental strategy; a monitoring and enforcement system for the national waste management strategy; a national strategy to combat desertification; and a plan to enhance environmental data management. Details on these projects, which are under development, are not publicly available, but they are expected to guide future policy. They aim to strengthen public-private cooperation, improve performance indicators, and enable better data sharing across agencies to support long-term environmental planning. Waste management strategy One of the most detailed initiatives is the National Waste Management Strategy 2040 (KNWMS), announced in mid-2024. It was developed by the EPA in partnership with the German Fraunhofer Institute for Environmental, Safety, and Energy Technology (UMSICHT), following a five-year study — one of the most comprehensive in the Gulf region to date. The project team analyzed waste generation trends, studied 20 major landfill sites, and interviewed over 400 waste stakeholders. They also tested hundreds of waste samples and installed 100 electronic 'e-noses' in odor-intensive areas to monitor air quality. The resulting strategy sets 28 national goals, including reducing landfill rates and increasing recycling of construction and municipal solid waste. A new geo-database and digital monitoring tools were created to help agencies track and manage waste more efficiently. While the strategy provides a robust framework, its implementation is still in the early stages. Renewable energy in-progress Efforts to integrate sustainability into everyday life are also reflected in Kuwait's development plans. A national program for environmentally harmonious living areas promotes efficient resource use and pollution reduction, with a focus on building eco-friendly cities that use green infrastructure and smart technology. The Fourth Kuwait Master Plan (2040) supports green buildings and improved urban sustainability. Many of these initiatives remain at the policy or pilot-project level. On the legislative front, Kuwait's environmental protection law outlines measures to safeguard ecosystems, reduce pollution, and promote biodiversity. It includes provisions to identify pollution sources, prevent harmful practices, and impose penalties for violations. At the 2025 Kuwait Sustainable Energy Conference, the government reaffirmed its plan to derive 50 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2050. Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy Dr Sabeeh Al-Mukhaizeem said Kuwait is pursuing 'carefully planned projects' that align with both international climate commitments and national development goals. However, specific milestones or progress updates are yet to be reported. Kuwait's renewable energy plans fall into three categories: Long-term initiatives such as the Shagaya project; medium-term projects like Abdaliya; and small-scale efforts under a national energy code requiring all facilities to produce at least 10 percent of their electricity from renewable sources. The Shagaya complex, developed via a public-private partnership, is expected to deliver 1,600 MW in two phases — 1,100 MW in the first and 500 MW in the second. Combatting desertification Other government bodies are also involved in environmental efforts. The Public Authority for Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAAFR) is leading afforestation campaigns across Kuwait, including in northern and southern border areas. Drought-resistant trees like Sidr and Tamarix are being planted to reduce dust pollution and combat desertification. Public parks and green spaces are being expanded, though comprehensive data on completion rates or outcomes has not been made available. Urban green infrastructure is expanding through public gardens, some spanning entire residential districts. Projects for natural reserves and eco-tourism are under discussion, with some initiatives underway. International organizations have acknowledged Kuwait's recent environmental actions. UNEP's Regional Director for West Asia, Sami Dimassi, highlighted Kuwait's commitment to developing 'responsive strategies that meet both current needs and future goals.' Meanwhile, Ghada Al-Taher, the UN Resident Coordinator in Kuwait, praised the country's engagement in efforts to combat desertification, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss. — Agencies
Arab Times
16 hours ago
- Arab Times
Kuwait raises over KD 6.5 million in urgent Gaza relief campaign
KUWAIT CITY, Aug 6: The Ministry of Social Affairs announced on Wednesday that the total amount of donations collected through its urgent relief campaign to support the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip has reached KD 6,546,078 (approximately USD 21.4 million). The three-day campaign concluded on Tuesday evening. Ministry spokesperson Yousef Saif told KUNA that the campaign was launched in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with participation from the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) and several Kuwaiti charities and foundations. Saif noted that several entities made substantial contributions. The General Secretariat of Endowments donated KD 500,000 (around USD 1.6 million), while the Insan Charity Society contributed KD 1.5 million (about USD 4.9 million). Donations through the electronic link provided by the Ministry under the campaign title 'Kuwait by Your Side – A Response to Gaza' amounted to KD 2,515,795 (approximately USD 8.2 million), with 63,501 donors participating. Additional contributions included: The spokesperson emphasized that the relief campaign reflects Kuwait's ongoing humanitarian commitment and support for the Palestinian people. The initiative aimed to provide essential food supplies and other basic necessities to those affected in Gaza. In addition to monetary contributions, the campaign also accepted in-kind food donations following approved guidelines. Food supplies are being purchased exclusively from the Kuwait Flour Mills and Bakeries Company, in line with Cabinet Resolution No. 1461. The Kuwait Red Crescent is coordinating with relevant relief agencies in Egypt, Jordan, and the Palestinian territories to ensure the delivery of aid to those in need.
