Kuwait’s 30th Qurain Cultural Festival spotlights national heritage
Festival to continue until Feb 12 featuring various cultural, musical and literary events
The Qurain Cultural Festival officially opened its 30th edition on Monday night with a musical performance titled “from Kuwait”. The representative of His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Minister of Information and Culture, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, and Chairman of the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi inaugurated the highly renowned festival at the Drama Theater at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center, with a speech. He said the Qurain Festival is a rich cultural event and a landmark on the map of Arab culture. It reflects Kuwait’s deep commitment to supporting the arts and literature while enhancing its cultural identity.
He emphasized that since its independence, Kuwait has been pioneering in establishing a comprehensive cultural vision, supporting cultural initiatives, and launching leading institutions and creative projects, which have strengthened its position both regionally and internationally. This role has manifested in distinguished publications, such as Al-Arabi, and in Kuwaiti journalism, which continues to serve as a platform for thought and creativity.
He also highlighted that this year’s Qurain Festival coincides with national celebrations and the commencement of activities for Kuwait, Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025. This alignment underlines Kuwait’s leadership in supporting Arab culture and developing its pathways, stemming from its firm belief that culture and the arts are the foundational pillars for building and advancing society. Kuna
"Shira'a" - An Annual Award to Honor Kuwaiti Media Creativity
The Kuwaiti Ministry of Information announced the details of the "Kuwait Media Award" (Shira'a) to honor the notable contributions of Kuwaiti journalists who have enhanced Kuwait's status as a beacon of media excellence in the Arab world.
In this context, the head of the award's supreme committee, Saad Al-Ali, stated at a press conference that the award aims to foster a spirit of creativity and innovation in the Kuwaiti media sector, create a competitive environment that enhances quality and professionalism, and highlight the pivotal role of media in shaping public opinion and supporting social issues.
Al-Ali noted that Kuwait, which this year carries the title of "Capital of Arab Culture and Media," has always been a pioneer in the Arab media landscape, supporting freedom of expression and media integrity.
He added that honoring media talents and shining a spotlight on the achievements that tell Kuwait's story to the world coincides with this occasion; thus, the "Shira'a" award reflects our appreciation for the vital role that media plays in shaping public opinion, promoting dialogue, and driving progress.
Award Categories
Al-Ali clarified that the award includes 16 media fields, distributed into two categories:
- Individual Awards: Best Interviewer, Best Content Creator, Best Investigative Report, Best Columnist, Best Critical Article, Best Photo, and Best Cartoon.
- Collective Awards: Best Dialogue Work, Best Documentary Film, Best Individual Dialogue Work, Best Interactive Program, Best Visual Work, Best AI-Generated Work, and Best Integrated Media Campaign.
The committee will also nominate a Media Personality of the Year, wherein the recognition will be based on the overall contributions of the individual and their positive impact on the Kuwaiti media landscape.
Al-Ali indicated that registration for the award will open in April 2025 and will last for three months, urging journalists and media institutions to submit their entries during this period. Specialized judging committees will evaluate the participating works, with winners announced during a grand ceremony in December 2025.
Promoting Purposeful Media
Last week, the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi announced the launch of the "Kuwait Media Award" to honor creatives in various media fields and enhance the production of purposeful and sustainable media content.
Al-Mutairi stated that the award comes amid a celebratory atmosphere as the country approaches its national holidays and announces Kuwait as the capital of Arab culture and media, reflecting the ministry's vision of supporting journalists and encouraging them to produce distinguished works that contribute to raising societal awareness.
He affirmed the ministry's endeavor to achieve positive change under the continuous support of His Highness the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect him, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Hamad Al-Sabah, may God protect him, and His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister, for media and journalists.
He explained that the "Shira'a" award includes both individual and collective competitions covering various media sectors to provide a platform that enhances creativity and nurtures young media talents in Kuwait. The award also has an Arab dimension through the presence of members from brotherly Arab countries in the judging committees to ensure comprehensive evaluation and elevate media standards.
Namaa Charity Launches “Fasting Person’s Iftar” Project in Partnership with the General Secretariat of Awqaf**
Launch of the "Fasting Person's Iftar" Project
Namaa Charity, affiliated with the Social Reform Society, announced the launch of the "Fasting Person's Iftar" project this year for underprivileged families, in partnership with the General Secretariat of Awqaf. This initiative aims to implement the conditions of endowment funds and the wishes of benefactors as stipulated in the endowment deeds held by the General Secretariat of Awqaf, to activate the endowment’s role in community development and meet the needs of those in need, by providing magnetized cards to underprivileged families.
Project Implementation and Scope
In this regard, the head of the Projects and Development Sector, Walid Al-Bassam, stated: The Iftar Project is being implemented by the Nama Charity in more than 20 countries; the project implementation varies between food baskets and meals, with a meal starting at 500 fils.
Strategic Partnerships in Humanitarian Work
He explained that the strategic partnership between humanitarian and charitable institutions has become one of the most important pillars upon which humanitarian and charitable work is based; therefore, Nama Charity is keen to move towards effective partnerships in implementing its charitable and humanitarian projects within the State of Kuwait.
Praise for Strategic Partnership
Al-Bassam praised the strategic partnership between Nama Charity and the General Secretariat of the Endowments, represented in the management of private funds to implement the "Iftar Project," indicating that Nama is moving forward in achieving its strategic vision aimed at activating the role of partnerships with all governmental and private institutions to provide aid and support to needy and impoverished families in the Kuwaiti society of various nationalities.
Importance of Strategic Coordination
He stated that the strategic coordination between donors and executors is essential to achieve the best results in the best ways; thus, it is crucial to enhance the means of partnership between Nama Charity and the management of private funds and the General Secretariat of the Endowments through various charitable projects, including the implementation of the "Iftar Project."
Distribution of Magnetic Cards
Al-Bassam pointed out that the Iftar Project was implemented by distributing magnetic cards to needy families to receive food materials from one of the markets with branches spread throughout the State of Kuwait.
Expression of Gratitude
He expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the General Secretariat of the Endowments for its pioneering role within Kuwait and commended the strategic partnership and mutual cooperation between "Nama Charity" and the "Endowments Authority," praying to the Almighty to reward those in charge of this blessed edifice with the best reward.
IICO launches an artesian well to provide clean drinking water for over 30,000 Yemenis
Enhancing Water Sustainability in Taiz Governorate
In a new step towards enhancing water sustainability and alleviating the suffering of residents of Taiz Governorate, an artesian well was opened in the Sala area of Taiz Governorate in Yemen, at a depth of 400 meters, funded by the International Islamic Charitable Organization and supervised by the Al-Hekma Yemeni Charitable Society.
Response to the Water Crisis in Taiz
Drilling the 400-meter deep artesian well comes in response to the escalating crisis in Taiz Governorate, where residents of the city suffer from water scarcity due to the ongoing siege and the destruction of many old wells due to ongoing conflicts.
Implementation with Modern Technologies
The project, implemented with modern technologies and the use of solar energy for water pumping, provides pure drinking water for over 30,000 beneficiaries in the area, as well as reducing the high costs that residents incur to buy water, in addition to contributing to the development of the deteriorating Yemeni economy through the establishment of infrastructure projects.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
This project is one of the humanitarian and developmental projects provided by the Charitable Authority to support our brothers in Yemen, based on its commitment to achieving sustainable development and improving the quality of life for residents in war-affected areas.
Enhancing Water Security and Alleviating Suffering
Moreover, the project represents an important step towards enhancing water security in Taiz Governorate and alleviating the suffering of displaced citizens and families that have difficulty obtaining clean water.
Impact on Health and Education
The impact of this project is not limited to providing water alone, but it also includes improving the level of health and education in the area, as providing clean water enables children to return to their classrooms instead of spending their time searching for water sources in rugged mountainous areas, which contributes to improving education and development levels in the region.
Raising Health Awareness
The project plays a tangible role in raising health awareness within the local community by providing clean drinking water and reducing diseases prevalent due to contaminated water.
Rahma International Society Begins Implementing Assistance for "Kuwait Mercy Convoys 4"
Commencement of Kuwait Mercy Convoys 4 Campaign
Rahma International Society announced the commencement of assistance for the "Kuwait Mercy Convoys 4" campaign, which the association is launching for the fourth consecutive year, coinciding with Kuwait's celebrations of its national occasions and days.
Congratulations to Kuwait's Leadership
Dr. Adnan Al-Haddad, Deputy Director-General for Communications, Marketing, and Information Technology at the Global Mercy Association, extended his congratulations to the Emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect him, and the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, may God safeguard him, on the occasion of the 64th anniversary of Kuwait's independence and the 34th of liberation.
Renewing Gratitude and Providing Support
In announcing the launch of the "Kuwait Mercy Convoys 4" campaign, Al-Haddad stated that the Kuwaiti people commemorate these occasions by renewing their gratitude to God Almighty for the blessing of the nation's security and peace, by providing support and assistance to needy and afflicted peoples.
Implementation in 17 Countries
Al-Haddad added that the convoy campaign will be implemented in 17 different countries, including Gaza, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, the West Bank, Djibouti, Ghana, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bosnia, Kosovo, Albania, Yemen, Mauritania, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkey, through various charitable projects that consider the needs of beneficiaries in each implementing country, to provide what suits their realities, whether humanitarian, food-related, or health-oriented.
Legal Compliance and Coordination
He confirmed that the campaign has met all its legal requirements, obtaining licenses from the Ministry of Social Affairs and coordinating with the Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry, with participation from several Kuwaiti ambassadors in various countries, along with activists and volunteers in humanitarian work.
Expression of Gratitude
Al-Haddad concluded his statement by expressing on behalf of the Global Mercy Association and its leadership and workers, heartfelt thanks and prayers to the generous benefactors from the Kuwaiti people who rushed to offer aid to their needy brothers in multiple countries through the "Kuwait Mercy Convoys 4" campaign, praying that the Almighty bestows upon Kuwait the blessings of security and safety, and makes it a haven of goodness, benevolence, and generosity.
Digital Transformation in the Kuwaiti Media Sector
The media sector in Kuwait has witnessed a significant digital transformation over the past years; this has led to varying opinions among specialists and officials regarding the quality of digital media platforms, the diversity of news sources, and public trust in them, in addition to the role of social media in disseminating news and its impact on followers.
Enhanced Production and Publishing Processes
The introduction of digital technologies into the media sector has enhanced production and publishing processes, delivering media content more quickly and effectively, especially with the proliferation of smartphone applications and programs that have facilitated access to the audience. Additionally, the digital transformation has enabled media and government institutions to communicate directly with the public; this has contributed significantly to enhancing interaction and mutual influence.
Challenges and Risks of Digital Transformation
However, this transformation has not been devoid of challenges, as some specialists have pointed to the dangers of the inability to verify the validity of circulating information; this could affect the credibility of news and create a fabricated public opinion. Furthermore, the increasing reliance on smart applications may threaten the privacy of individuals and institutions, particularly with the possibility of data leaks or unethical use.
Opportunities Created by Digital Media
Dr. Ahmed Al-Kandari, a professor of media and public relations at Kuwait University, confirmed that the digital media transformation has allowed everyone the opportunity to own media platforms and communicate directly with the audience, whereas creating traditional media outlets previously required substantial capital. He explained that this transformation has enabled government institutions to communicate directly and effectively with the community, thus contributing to impacting public opinion and engaging with it faster than ever before.
Challenges to News Credibility
Dr. Ali Al-Sharika, a digital media expert, believes that the digital transformation in media has led to a revolution in producing and publishing news; however, he pointed to challenges associated with news credibility and the swift dissemination of inaccurate information. He noted that social media platforms have become a fertile ground for the spread of fake news, making the responsibility of verifying news sources more urgent than ever.
Opportunities for Journalists and Content Creators
Fahd Al-Anzi, a consultant in new media, indicated that digital media has provided unprecedented opportunities for journalists and independent content creators to reach a wide audience without the need for support from traditional media institutions. However, he pointed out that the increase in digital content has made the audience susceptible to media distortion, making it difficult to distinguish between accurate and misleading information amid the vast quantity of available content.
Social Media as a Primary News Source
For his part, social media analyst Bader Al-Mutairi noted that social media platforms have become the primary source of news for a large segment of society, but at the same time, they have led to a decline in the influence of traditional media. He added that the algorithms used on these platforms promote the dissemination of news that receives widespread engagement, regardless of its accuracy; this may create public opinion based on incorrect information.
Privacy and Data Protection Challenges
Maryam Al-Kandari, editor-in-chief of an online newspaper, believes that digital media has contributed to the increased speed of delivering information to the public, but conversely, it has posed challenges related to the protection of privacy and personal data. She explained that media institutions need to develop advanced security policies to protect user data and prevent information leaks, especially in light of the increase in cyber attacks.
"Hofath" rehabilitated the inpatient departments at the Kuwait Specialized Hospital in Gaza.
As part of its ongoing efforts to provide humanitarian support to our brothers in Gaza, the Kuwaiti Charity Association "Hofath" has rehabilitated the inpatient departments at the Kuwait Specialized Hospital in Gaza, thanks to a generous donation from benefactors in Kuwait.
A Humanitarian Initiative for Healthcare Support
The Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors at "Hofath," Eng. Ahmed Al-Murshid, stated that this project is one of the humanitarian initiatives provided by the association to support the healthcare system for the care of patients, injured individuals, and those affected in Khan Younis Province in the Gaza Strip.
Gratitude to Kuwaiti Benefactors
Al-Murshid expressed gratitude and appreciation to the generous benefactors from the State of Kuwait and those residing there for their continued support and solidarity with their brothers in Gaza. He emphasized that it is not surprising for the people of Kuwait—led by their Amir, government, and people—to stand with their brothers in Gaza, as the people of Kuwait are always quick to help those in need in many countries around the world through their charity associations and institutions.
Ongoing Humanitarian Support
He pointed out that the Kuwaiti Charity Association is continuing its humanitarian support efforts for our people in Gaza and standing by them in their hardship, through various forms of assistance representing part of Kuwait's aid to the brothers in Gaza, supervised by the Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of the ongoing efforts since the onset of the crisis to support the affected in the region.
Examples of Assistance Provided
Among the examples of assistance provided by "Keepers" to Gaza since the onset of the crisis are the distribution of 1,000 milk boxes benefiting 249 children, 357 food baskets benefiting 357 families, and 4,400 loaves of bread benefiting 110 individuals, as well as 215 Ramadan baskets and 10,924 Iftar meals during Ramadan benefiting 10,924 individuals. Additionally, 1,054 Iftar meals were distributed on the Day of Arafah, benefiting 1,054 individuals, along with 9 sacrifices benefiting 42 families. "Hofath" also provided 40 tons of medical and food aid in addition to 4 ambulances in cooperation with the Kuwaiti Relief Association.
Continued Support and Prayer for Gaza
We continue to support Gaza and Palestine, and we ask Allah to hasten the relief of their distress, accept their martyrs, and heal their wounded.
