Latest news with #ZakatHouse
Arab Times
04-08-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Kuwait's Gaza relief drive gathers momentum, nears KD2 mln mark
KUWAIT CITY, Aug 4: The urgent relief campaign for Gaza has so far collected a total of KD1,796,608 as donations. Official spokesperson of the Ministry of Social Affairs Yousef Saif Al-Mutairi said, 'The 'Faz'a for Gaza' campaign, launched by the ministry under Amiri directives, embodies the unwavering commitment of Kuwait to support humanitarian causes and the depth of public and official solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the Gaza Strip in light of the tragic circumstances they are experiencing.' In an interview with Kuwait TV, Al-Mutairi affirmed that Minister of Social, Family, and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah was closely monitoring the campaign. He disclosed that the campaign was launched in two phases, starting with in-kind donations last week, in partnership with Zakat House and several entities, especially the Kuwait Flour Mills Company. He added that the aid was delivered to the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS), which will then transport it to Gaza via airlift in cooperation with the Kuwait Air Force. He stated that the second phase – financial donations – began on Aug 3 and will continue until Aug 5 through the electronic links approved by charities licensed by the ministry. He confirmed, 'This is an honorable campaign, which reflects Kuwait's humanitarian image. It came at a critical time, coinciding with the escalating tragedy in Gaza. Kuwait is a pioneer in such initiatives. Our humanitarian and religious duties require us to stand with our brothers in times of hardship, a fact exemplified by this blessed campaign.' He explained that the campaign does not target a specific group in Gaza, as it rather intends to reach all affected people -- whether children, the wounded or besieged families. He revealed that in-kind donations are being used to provide basic food supplies, which are currently the most urgently needed, with the possibility of expanding it to include medical or educational assistance as needed and in coordination with the concerned authorities. He pointed out that the State of Kuwait has a long and distinguished record of charitable and humanitarian work. He said 'charity is part of this country's history. The people of Kuwait are well-versed in helping the needy and supporting the oppressed. Kuwait's rulers have historically been known for helping the poor, such as the third ruler of Kuwait, HH the late Amir Jaber Al-Aish, who earned this name for his generosity. This approach is deeply rooted in us as a people and a government. Thanks to this approach, the State of Kuwait has earned global recognition.' He added the United Nations declared Kuwait as a Humanitarian Center, and His Highness the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad (may Allah have mercy on him) was honored with the title of 'Humanitarian Leader.' He indicated that this honor reflects a well-established truth, recognized worldwide, that Kuwait is a beacon of charitable work.
Arab Times
14-06-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
MoSA's debt relief initiative eases the burden on thousands of Kuwaitis
KUWAIT CITY, June 14: The Ministry of Social Affairs announced that the third national campaign to settle debts has achieved record results, raising more than KD15 million to cover the debts of more than 9,000 cases. The campaign was launched in partnership with the government and charitable entities like Zakat House, Kuwait Finance House, Issa Abdullah Al-Othman Endowment, the Secretariat General of Awqaf, along with several charitable and cooperative societies. The ministry confirmed in a press statement that the funds collected were transferred in full to the Execution of Judgments General Department at the Ministry of Justice to handle the settlement of the debts of eligible cases. 'These funds were carefully studied according to specific terms and criteria by six technical and legal committees, comprising representatives from the ministries of Interior, Justice, Social Affairs and Endowments, and Zakat House. A total of 9,119 files have been reviewed since the campaign's launch, in a meticulous evaluation process that included a separate study of each case to ensure eligibility and prevent any exploitation, in line with the principle of fairness in aid distribution,' it elaborated. The ministry confirmed that the campaign will only benefit indebted citizens detained in correctional institutions or those with enforcement cases, excluding those who benefited from the first and second campaigns in 2023 and 2024. 'This aim is to expand the beneficiary base and reach the most needy groups,' it added. It also emphasized that the campaign embodies Kuwait's humanitarian approach to support struggling groups and preserve their dignity, and reflects the spirit of national solidarity and cooperation between the government and charitable sectors. It concluded its statement by affirming its commitment to transparency and providing communication channels with citizens by responding to their inquiries through the Sahel application, and enabling applicants to follow up their files and view their details electronically.
Kuwait Times
05-06-2025
- Business
- Kuwait Times
How people in Kuwait are offering Eid Al-Adha sacrifices in 2025
Ministry steps up inspections to prevent price manipulation in livestock markets KUWAIT: Eid Al-Adha sacrifices are taking many forms this year in Kuwait. Some residents spend on premium local breeds, others are opting for more affordable sheep, and many are choosing to send their offerings abroad, driven by the urge to support Muslims in need in crisis-hit regions. For many, the value of the act outweighs the cost of the animal. At one of the most popular livestock markets, Waleed Ahmed, a Pakistani expat, stood holding his receipt after purchasing Arabic Naeimi sheep, among the most expensive breeds available. 'It's not about the price,' he told Kuwait Times. 'This is a sacrifice. You choose the best you can afford because it's for Allah.' The Naeimi local breed, known for its rich flavor and tender meat, continues to be the top choice among many customers, especially Kuwaitis. 'The Arab Naeimi is between KD 170 to 180,' said Abdulaziz, a vendor at the market. 'It's always in demand. Kuwaitis prefer it because the meat is the best.' Waleed, though an expat, said he grew up with the love for its taste. 'The meat is rich and flavorful. I was born and raised in Kuwait, and this is the flavor I have always known.' Nearby, Jordanian customer Ehab Abu Obaid echoed the same sentiment. Vendors wait for customers at the livestock market. Sheep and goats are seen at the market. Sheep and goats are seen at the market. A man inspects sheep before buying it. Online sacrifice 'I only eat Arab meat,' he said firmly while negotiating with a vendor. 'It's what I was raised on. The seller won't budge below KD 170, but I'm buying it anyway.' Still, he acknowledged a shift in how many are giving: 'I know people who no longer sacrifice here because they just can't afford it. They donate online instead, especially to places like Gaza, where they feel the meat is more urgently needed.' Hashem is one of them. 'This year, I donated through Zakat House to Somalia. It cost me KD 40,' he said. 'They're facing famine, that's real need. In Kuwait, it's harder to find families who genuinely cannot afford meat.' Egyptian resident Saeed offered a similar perspective. 'I do the sacrifice in Egypt, where families are truly in need. In Kuwait, most people are better off and already have support,' he said. Indian resident Shakir has found a middle ground, sacrificing in India where prices are lower, while also doing one locally, as it's important for him to keep the tradition alive here too around his family. At your doorstep Adding to the range of options this year, a new service has emerged, some delivery apps are now offering home-delivery of sacrificial animals. Customers can order, pay, and receive their sheep right at their doorstep, adding a layer of convenience. At the market, Abdulaziz listed the price ranges for other lambs' options. 'If you want something cheaper, you go for the Somali at KD 60, or the Australian around KD 70 to 75,' he said. 'The Iranian or Shifali types are mid-range, around KD 115 to 120.' Due the wide price differences, he highlighted, 'Whoever wants something will find it for the price they're looking for. It just depends on the type and weight.' Vendor Abu Mustafa said prices typically peak in the days leading up to Eid, but drop slightly by the second day. Jordanian shopper Abo Ebeed was trying to beat the rush. 'I came early before the best sheep run out,' he said. Abu Mustafa noted a clear divide in preferences: 'Arab sheep are mostly bought by Kuwaitis, while Somali and Australian ones are more popular among expats.' For the Australian, he noted it is only sold by the AlMawashi slaughterhouse and through an early booking system. Inflated prices A source who preferred to stay anonymous, revealed to Kuwait Times rising buyers' frustration, noting that some sellers inflate prices or pass off lower-quality sheep as premium breeds. He stressed the importance of buyers educating themselves about the different livestock types, their distinguishing features, and fair pricing before making a purchase. In response to such concerns, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced on Tuesday that it has intensified inspection campaigns in livestock markets ahead of Eid Al-Adha. According to Faisal Al-Ansari, Director of the Commercial Control Department, inspection teams are conducting daily tours to monitor market activity, ensure price stability, and confirm that enough sacrificial livestock (Adahi) are available to meet demand. These campaigns are coordinated in advance with sheep importers to secure sufficient quantities and prevent price hikes, Al-Ansari told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA). He emphasized that the ministry is closely monitoring complaints, urging the public to report any violations. Their goal is to protect consumers, ensure transparency, and support both citizens and residents during the Eid season, he added.
Arab Times
22-05-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Sacrificial Meat to Reach Needy Families in Kuwait This Eid
KUWAIT CITY, May 22: Deputy Director General of Zakat House Adel Al-Jeri announced that the institution is preparing to launch its annual Eid Al-Adha sacrifice (Udhiyah) project in Kuwait and internationally, in celebration of the upcoming holiday. In a press statement, Al-Jeri affirmed that Zakat House remains committed to fulfilling the Sunnah of sacrificing animals during Eid Al-Adha each year. He explained that the local portion of the project will be carried out in cooperation with a Kuwaiti livestock company, starting from the first day of Eid. 'Internationally, the project will be implemented in several African and Asian countries through licensed charitable organizations that work with Zakat House, in coordination with Kuwaiti embassies in those countries,' he disclosed. He added that in Kuwait, the sacrificed animals will be slaughtered, butchered, packaged and stored under food safety and quality standards; and then distributed to eligible and needy families registered in Zakat House. He provided the following pricing details: I nside Kuwait: KD79 for Australian sheep and KD180 for local (Arab) sheep Outside Kuwait: prices range from KD25 to KD105, depending on the country. He said the project will be carried out in Lebanon, Yemen, Somalia, India, Sudan, Benin, Uganda, Tanzania, Indonesia, Djibouti, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Mauritania, Albania, Niger, Bosnia, Nepal, Kyrgyzstan, Cambodia, Jordan and Syria. clarified that the international sacrifice animals will not be limited to sheep and goats, but will also include cows. He cited as examples in Tanzania, where one share of a cow costs KD22; and in Cambodia where one share costs KD35 He added that donors can contribute to the project through the Zakat House website, its mobile app or by visiting its donation centers near cooperative societies, and booths in 360 Mall, The Avenues, and Kuwait International Airport (Terminal Four).
Arab Times
11-05-2025
- Politics
- Arab Times
Most Zakat funds spent on administrators
ZAKAT in Islam is governed by specific criteria and guidelines. The distribution of zakat to beneficiaries follows a specific order of priority, which includes: poor relatives, the needy, those employed to collect it (administrators), new Muslims, the emancipation of slaves, individuals in debt, those striving in the cause of Allah, and stranded travelers. Over time, this system has seen changes in response to societal changes, national development, and evolving individual circumstances. Nevertheless, certain core principles remain unchanged, such as prioritizing zakat for relatives, which in Kuwait's context includes needy families and individuals imprisoned for financial, civil, or misdemeanor cases. However, over the past four decades, the emergence of political Islamist groups and the misuse of donations for purposes beyond their intended goals have led to growing chaos. Financial aid has increasingly been directed to other countries by certain groups seeking to promote their ideologies and attract followers to extremist movements. Meanwhile, those in need closer to home, who should be prioritized, are often deprived of assistance. This situation has distorted the image of Kuwaiti charitable efforts in the eyes of the world. At the same time, there are approximately 120,000 citizens facing arrest warrants, travel bans, or criminal court cases some of whom are in prison, including mothers and housewives who were deceived. I have repeatedly stressed that these individuals are the most deserving of donations, as they are our closest in terms of kinship, neighborliness, citizenship, and other social considerations. Debtors are indeed entitled to benefit from zakat funds. I commend the campaign launched by the Minister of Social Affairs to support debtors; however, the campaign is insufficient, as it is seasonal and lacks permanence. Meanwhile, the Zakat House oversees projects that invest the enormous sums donated annually by individuals and companies. The problem lies in how these funds are distributed. Rather than directing them toward transnational charitable projects, it would be better to allocate them within Kuwait. There are tens of thousands of citizens who wish to pay zakat sincerely, seeking reward from God, and not wanting their donations to end up serving specific political agendas. Many charitable societies, committees, and friendship organizations in Kuwait continue to direct donation funds abroad, while debtors and the needy within the country are excluded from support. The growing number of individuals who have had their Kuwaiti citizenship revoked, including mothers and widows of Kuwaiti citizens, stresses the urgent need to prioritize the distribution of zakat funds within Kuwait. Many of these individuals are in desperate need of assistance to sustain their lives. What is striking is the misuse of zakat funds, as a large portion is being spent on the comfort and privileges of the officials tasked with collecting and managing the funds. Lavish office furnishings and travel expenses often take priority, despite regulations stating that no more than 20 percent of zakat funds should be allocated for administrative purposes. Meanwhile, many truly needy individuals receive only minimal assistance after navigating a difficult and often humiliating process. In stark contrast, the Zakat House grants large sums, ranging from KD 3,000 to KD 5,000, to individuals with connections. This imbalance is akin to offering a starving person a mere morsel while laying out full platters of food for someone already well-fed. Laws and legislation enacted under pressure from wealthy and influential individuals seeking to keep citizens under the hammer of poverty have only worsened the situation. Official state institutions have become some kind of agents collecting money on behalf of usurers and financial tycoons, something unheard of anywhere else in the world but in Kuwait. The Minister of Social Affairs made a commendable decision by halting the collection of donations through charitable committees, as directing these funds to support those in need within Kuwait is now more effective. However, this does not absolve the state of its responsibility to solve the issues of debtors and the needy. A permanent campaign must be activated to end this crisis and protect many segments of society from disintegration. Achieving this goal is possible with strong will and genuine commitment.
