Latest news with #BasmaMubarak
Daily Tribune
07-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Charity fundraising is ‘public money', subject to controls
Charitable fundraising in Bahrain is treated as public money and subject to firm controls, the Social Development Ministry has confirmed. Permits are capped at one year, with a financial audit required within a fortnight of expiry. The response came from the Social Development Minister, His Excellency Osama Al Alawi, yesterday following a question by MP Basma Mubarak on the rules governing how charities may collect donations. He told parliament that the ministry follows the Decree-Law on fundraising in public spaces, along with the executive rules set out in Decision No. 47 of 2014. System The Minister explained that the system is intended to allow charities to carry out their work while ensuring that collections remain within the bounds of the law, as the funds are classed in the same way as public money. Applicants must meet a set of conditions before any permit is granted. Once a complete application is submitted, the ministry has thirty days to decide. Those applying, whether individuals or organisations, must open a bank account for the sole purpose of receiving donations. This must be with a bank licensed by the Central Bank of Bahrain. If the application is approved, the ministry coordinates with other authorities to ensure proper oversight. Permit The permit is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. At the end of that period, the permit-holder must submit a full, audited financial report to the relevant department at the ministry. This must be done within 15 days of the fundraising period ending.
Daily Tribune
08-02-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Turning Northern Governorate into traditional markets hub
A bold new proposal could transform the Northern Governorate into a vibrant hub of traditional markets, offering a unique blend of local culture, craftsmanship, and commerce. Spearheaded by MPs Muneer Seroor, Basma Mubarak, Bader Al Tamimi, Mohammed Al Ahmad, and Lulwa Al Rumaihi, the initiative seeks to introduce several traditional markets to the area, offering Bahrainis the chance to showcase their skills and products while boosting tourism and the local economy. Endorsed by the Services Committee of the Council of Representatives, the proposal envisions promoting locally sourced goods such as pottery, textiles, and fresh produce, while creating jobs for artisans and strengthening the cultural fabric of the community. The MPs argue that this initiative will not only provide a platform for local businesses but will also enhance Bahrain's reputation as a destination for unique, authentic experiences. By reducing reliance on imported goods, the plan aims to encourage self-sufficiency and a greater appreciation for homegrown talents and products. However, the proposal has faced resistance from some key government agencies. The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, along with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, has expressed concern that similar markets already exist in various areas, including the Old Manama Souq and the Old Muharraq Souq, and they question the need for additional markets. The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities has also noted its willingness to establish specialized markets for traditional crafts in the Northern Governorate—provided there is adequate funding to do so. Similarly, the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture highlighted existing facilities, such as the pottery factory in A'ali, the pottery products market in Hamad Town, the textile factory in Bani Jamra, and the Al Jasra Crafts Centre, all of which already support the promotion of traditional crafts and products. Despite these concerns, the Northern Municipal Council has shown strong support for the proposal. They have suggested licensing land for traditional markets to serve areas like Saar, Abu Saiba, Al Shakhoura, Al Qadam, and Maqabah, as well as establishing markets in Hawarat A'ali and Salmabad, alongside a central market in the A'ali area. The Council believes these markets would meet local needs while enriching the community's cultural landscape. As the proposal moves toward a vote in the Council of Representatives next Tuesday, it is expected to receive approval.
