Latest news with #GeneralSecretariatofAwqaf
Arab Times
5 days ago
- Health
- Arab Times
Kuwait launches 'First Responder Fleet' to boost emergency medical services
KUWAIT CITY, July 10: The Ministry of Health (MoH) on Wednesday officially launched the 'First Responder Fleet' — a strategic initiative designed to strengthen the delivery of emergency medical services across Kuwait, particularly in critical situations and underserved areas. Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi inaugurated the project during a ceremony held in Kuwait City, describing the new fleet as a vital extension of the national health strategy aimed at bolstering medical preparedness and response times during emergencies. 'This project is not merely a logistical addition but a tangible embodiment of the state's commitment to enhancing its emergency healthcare infrastructure,' said Dr. Al-Awadhi. 'It reflects our national vision to protect lives and minimize health complications by improving rapid response capabilities.' The First Responder initiative is the result of strategic cooperation between the Ministry's Medical Emergency Department and the General Secretariat of Awqaf. It is designed to ensure swift access to life-saving care, including early resuscitation and first aid, particularly in remote or densely populated areas where response times are often critical. According to the Health Minister, the primary goal is to deploy trained personnel and resources quickly to the site of an incident to assess injuries, provide immediate care, and stabilize patients before they are transferred to a hospital. The fleet will also support field triage operations in the event of major incidents, helping determine the scale of response needed and facilitating effective coordination. The First Responder Fleet currently consists of 28 fully equipped vehicles, strategically distributed based on criteria such as population density, service coverage, and response priority. Al-Awadhi noted that these allocations will be regularly reviewed and updated to maintain optimal operational efficiency. Assistant Undersecretary for Medical Support Services Dr. Abdullah Al-Fars added that the vehicles are staffed by qualified emergency medical technicians and paramedics, all certified in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS). Each vehicle is outfitted with resuscitation equipment, oxygen supplies, advanced respirators, intravenous fluids, essential medications, and devices to stabilize fractures and monitor vital signs. Dr. Al-Fars explained that the response process begins at the central operations room, where incoming emergency calls are assessed and the nearest First Responder vehicle is dispatched. Upon arrival, the team evaluates the situation, administers necessary care, and prepares a report for follow-up teams or hospital transfer. Representing the Secretary-General of the General Secretariat of Awqaf, Nasser Al-Khedr emphasized the Secretariat's ongoing commitment to collaborating with government agencies on developmental projects. He acknowledged the contributions of donors who have funded such community-serving initiatives through the Endowment Fund for Health Care, which supports projects in accordance with Islamic endowment principles and donor directives. Al-Khedr affirmed the Secretariat's readiness to continue supporting national efforts in enhancing Kuwait's healthcare services, particularly in ways that align with both modern needs and traditional values. The First Responder project marks a significant step in Kuwait's health sector development, reinforcing the country's ability to respond effectively and swiftly to medical emergencies, while upholding the principles of community care and strategic preparedness.
Kuwait Times
25-06-2025
- Politics
- Kuwait Times
Telephone and Electronic Fatwa service launched
Acting Secretary-General of the General Secretariat of Endowments Nasser Al-Hamad KUWAIT: The General Secretariat of Awqaf signed a cooperation agreement on Wednesday with the Ministry of Islamic Affairs to launch the 'Telephone and Electronic Fatwa' project, aiming to provide accessible and reliable Sharia guidance in light of accelerating digital transformations. Speaking on the occasion, Acting Secretary General of the Secretariat, Nasser Al-Hamad, said the initiative is designed to facilitate the public's access to accurate religious rulings from official sources. He emphasized that the project reflects the growing need for trustworthy fatwa services that are aligned with modern communication channels. Al-Hamad highlighted the significance of the partnership, noting that it strengthens cooperation between the Secretariat and the Ministry in utilizing Sharia expertise to serve community development goals. 'This agreement enables citizens and residents to obtain verified religious rulings through direct communication with qualified scholars via designated phone channels,' he said. He added that the service will handle inquiries across various aspects of life—including worship, transactions, and social matters—through the dedicated line 149. 'This endowment-backed initiative promotes a moderate and informed religious discourse while ensuring the issuance of fatwas remains within official frameworks,' he noted. Al-Hamad further stated that the project plays a vital role in enhancing the authority of the official fatwa system in Kuwait, in line with Islamic principles and the stipulations of benefactors. He affirmed that the Secretariat remains committed to supporting religious awareness, sustainable development, and community service through innovative and inclusive approaches. — KUNA
