Kuwait in a Week, Thursday, February 12, 2026

  Endowment Forum Launches Under Amir’s Patronage: A Growing Endowment, A Rising Kuwait

The General Secretariat of Awqaf has launched the media campaign for the 28th Endowment Forum, set for February 16, 2026, under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The forum highlights the endowment’s role as a cornerstone of Kuwait’s social and developmental fabric.

Secretary-General Jenan Al-Zamel affirmed that the Amir’s support reflects the endowment’s status as a sustainable driver of community development, rooted in Kuwait’s heritage. The event will feature a documentary, student performances, and an exhibition showcasing partnerships with state institutions. Key initiatives include family reconciliation programs to strengthen social stability and “Sada” projects supporting children with hearing impairments.

Deputy Chair Nasser Al-Khudr emphasized that the forum embodies Kuwait’s vision for human development, with local partners playing a central role in maximizing the endowment’s societal impact.

  Kuwait: Israeli Measures in West Bank Illegal, Undermine Peace Prospects

Kuwait has denounced Israeli occupation measures in the West Bank, calling them illegal attempts to expand settlements and impose control over Palestinian lands to alter demographic and historical realities.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged the international community and the UN Security Council to act against these violations, stressing that they jeopardize peace efforts and the two-state solution. It highlighted that the measures contravene international law, UN Resolution 2334 (2016), and the International Court of Justice’s 2024 advisory opinion, which confirmed the illegality of settlements and demanded their immediate halt.

Reaffirming its steadfast support for Palestinian rights, Kuwait reiterated its backing for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, and called on the global community to shoulder its responsibility in stopping these violations.

  Kuwait Sets Strict Rules for Ramadan Fundraising

The Ministry of Social Affairs has issued new regulations for charitable fundraising during Ramadan 1447 AH (2026), prohibiting cash donations and unlicensed collection activities.

Assistant Undersecretary Iman Al-Enezi confirmed that fundraising inside mosques or in public spaces without approval is banned. Charities must use only licensed methods such as K-Net, online platforms, bank deductions, mobile apps, and SMS services.

Associations are required to submit detailed revenue reports, use ministry-approved bank accounts, and ensure representatives carry identification and provide receipts. Non-cash donations like gold, silver, or cars must be documented with verified valuations.

The ministry stressed that these rules aim to safeguard donations, enhance transparency, and ensure compliance with Kuwait’s charitable regulations, reinforcing accountability in Ramadan fundraising. 

 Mafaz Competition Builds Student Awareness of Endowment and Zakat

The General Secretariat of Awqaf, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and the Zakat House, held two orientation meetings for the second season of the “Mafaz” competition in the Capital and Jahra educational districts. The initiative targets students aged 11–17, aiming to instill values of endowment, zakat, and charitable work while enhancing linguistic, rhetorical, and digital skills.

Lina Al-Mutawa, Chair of the Supreme Committee, emphasized that “Mafaz” reflects a national vision to prepare a generation committed to sustainable development and social solidarity. Students, divided into middle and high school groups, will work in teams under teacher supervision to present creative projects.

The competition follows transparent evaluation mechanisms, including interactive presentations and digital content, with winners honored for innovation. Al-Mutawa announced plans to expand “Mafaz” nationwide, making it a comprehensive educational platform that spreads the culture of giving across Kuwait’s schools.

 Al-Salam Charity Launches Ramadan Basket Project to Support Needy Families

The Al-Salam Charity Association has inaugurated its Ramadan Basket Project, providing essential food supplies to underprivileged families across Kuwait. The launch ceremony was attended by Iman Al-Enezi, Assistant Undersecretary for Social Care and Development Affairs, who praised the association’s organization and the enthusiasm of its volunteers.

General Director Hamad Al-Aoun announced that basket distribution will run from February 10–12, 2026, at the International Islamic Charity Organization Hall in Jahra, with families notified via QR codes specifying collection times. Each basket is designed to meet household needs throughout Ramadan, easing the burden on families and serving as a gift for the holy month.

Al-Aoun expressed gratitude to the Ministries of Social Affairs and Interior, donors, and volunteers for their support, emphasizing that the project reflects Kuwait’s enduring commitment to charitable and humanitarian work.

  Kuwait Reaffirms Support for UNHCR and Global Humanitarian Efforts

Kuwait has renewed its commitment to supporting the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), as Ambassador Nasser Al-Hain met with High Commissioner Barham Saleh in Geneva. The discussions focused on strengthening strategic cooperation, particularly in responding to humanitarian crises, protecting refugees, and meeting their essential needs.

Al-Hain underscored Kuwait’s consistent humanitarian approach and its leadership’s directives to continue playing an active role both regionally and internationally. He emphasized that Kuwait’s support for UNHCR reflects its deep-rooted values of solidarity and responsibility.

Saleh expressed gratitude for Kuwait’s sustained assistance, praising the strong partnership between the two sides. He also conveyed his appreciation to Kuwait’s leadership, recognizing the country’s pioneering role in advancing humanitarian causes worldwide. This renewed commitment highlights Kuwait’s position as a key partner in global humanitarian efforts.

  Kuwait Honors 44 Women Innovators on International Day of Women and Girls in Science

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences, honored 44 Kuwaiti women for their scientific and research achievements during a ceremony at the Sheikh Abdullah Al-Salem Cultural Center.

Ambassador Sheikha Jawaher Al-Sabah, Assistant Foreign Minister for Human Rights Affairs, highlighted that the recognition reflects Kuwait’s constitutional values and its New Kuwait Vision 2035 focus on creative human capital. She affirmed Kuwait’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly gender equality and innovation, and noted the initiative’s alignment with Kuwait’s pledges at the UN Human Rights Council and international conventions on women’s empowerment.

Sheikha Jawaher praised the honorees’ global accomplishments, underscoring that women represent 70% of Kuwait’s presence in science sectors. She stressed that empowering women in STEM is central to Kuwait’s competitiveness and knowledge-based economy, in line with the vision of His Highness the Amir.

  Kuwait Concludes Arab Culture and Media Capital 2025 with Visionary Celebration

Kuwait wrapped up its year as Capital of Arab Culture and Media 2025 with a closing ceremony at the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Center, under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah.

Minister Omar Al-Omar affirmed that Kuwait treated the title as a practical path, not a symbolic honor, through initiatives that enriched Arab creativity and reinforced culture’s role in responsible media. He emphasized the enduring presence of Jerusalem as a permanent capital of Arab culture and highlighted the collective Arab effort in shaping the year’s programs.

ALECSO’s Director-General praised Kuwait’s pioneering cultural leadership, while the Arab League commended its historic media contributions, including the iconic Al-Arabi magazine. The event concluded with “Naseej”, a theatrical-musical performance blending heritage and modernity, symbolizing Kuwait’s vibrant cultural identity and its commitment to advancing Arab cultural and media cooperation.

  Social Affairs Ministry Ends Cooperative Exemptions   

Kuwait’s Ministry of Social Affairs announced stricter enforcement of cooperative society regulations as Ramadan approaches, declaring that the era of exemptions has ended. Dr. Sayed Issa, Acting Assistant Undersecretary, warned against requests by cooperatives to distribute purchase credits outside approved budgets, stressing that such practices violate laws and undermine proper planning.

Issa emphasized that Ramadan is a known season requiring advance preparation, not last-minute exceptions. He urged cooperatives to include allocations for purchase credits in their budgets for future years, citing Qadisiya Cooperative’s proactive planning that enabled it to distribute 115 dinars per family card without exemptions.

The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to governance, transparency, and equal application of the law, insisting that negligence will not be rewarded. Cooperatives are required to comply with ministerial Resolution No. 46/T of 2021, ensuring financial discipline and professional management of seasonal obligations.

  Kuwait Records 40% Rise in Cancer Recovery Rates Over a Decade

Kuwait has achieved a 40% increase in cancer recovery rates over the past ten years, according to Dr. Khaled Al-Saleh, Chairman of the National Cancer Awareness Campaign (CAN). He credited the improvement to greater public awareness and early detection, with most breast cancer patients now diagnosed in earlier stages, boosting survival rates above 85%.

A CAN study revealed a 30% rise in cancer awareness among Kuwaitis and a growing perception of cancer as a chronic but manageable illness.

The announcement came during the closing of the 11th Gulf Cancer Awareness Week, which featured over 45 initiatives, including seminars, workshops, and exhibitions. Dr. Hessa Al-Shahine emphasized that these activities strengthen prevention and early detection efforts, reflecting the success of Gulf-wide health awareness programs in reducing cancer risks and improving patient outcomes.

  Teacher of Gold Competition Honors Educators as Builders of Generations

The Ministry of Education, in cooperation with the Teachers’ Association, honored winners of the fifth “Teacher of Gold” competition, celebrating educators’ pivotal role in shaping future generations. Acting Undersecretary Mohammed Al-Khaldi affirmed that teachers are the foundation of educational progress and praised participants for their creativity and dedication, which align with Kuwait Vision 2035’s goal of sustainable, high-quality education.

Al-Khaldi described teachers as a source of pride and emphasized that their efforts elevate Kuwait’s future. He also thanked the Teachers’ Association for its continued support of the teaching profession.

Association Chairman Hamad Al-Houli noted that the competition is the first of its kind to apply innovation-driven initiatives in education, encouraging teachers to integrate creative projects across diverse fields. He stressed that the initiative reflects a collaborative effort with academic institutions to embed innovation as a daily educational practice.

  Kuwait and UNHCR Strengthen Partnership to Advance Human Rights

Representatives of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights concluded a visit to Kuwait (February 8–10), coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Department of Human Rights. The mission reflects Kuwait’s strategic partnership with the UN and its commitments as a member of the Human Rights Council (2024–2026).

The delegation met with key ministries, national institutions, and civil society organizations, including the Ministries of Justice, Interior, Defense, Social Affairs, and Information, as well as the National Human Rights Bureau and academic institutes.

The visit aimed to review Kuwait’s human rights framework, legislation, and institutional practices, while identifying areas for technical support and capacity-building. The Ministry emphasized that the initiative underscores Kuwait’s dedication to strengthening human rights protections and ensuring compliance with international standards.

  Peace Festival Highlights Kuwait’s Spirit of Loyalty and National Pride

The Women’s Institute for Development and Peace announced the ninth Peace Festival, to be held in Jahra on Thursday and in Mishref on Sunday, under the patronage of local governors.

Institute President Kawthar Al-Jouan described the festival as a reflection of Kuwait’s loyal and patriotic people, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices that secured the nation’s freedom. She noted that the celebrations coincide with the 65th Independence Day and 35th Liberation Day, motivating citizens to pursue sustainable development and protect national achievements.

Al-Jouan emphasized that associating Kuwait with peace is a source of pride, symbolizing a modern state rooted in strong institutions and humanitarian values. She highlighted the importance of such festivals in fostering patriotism among youth, with volunteer groups and institutions actively participating to reinforce national unity and loyalty.

 Kuwait Launches Integrated National System to Protect Families and Children

Minister of Justice Nasser Al-Sumait opened the Family and Child Protection Conference, stressing the need for an integrated national system involving government, civil society, and media to safeguard families and children. He highlighted that family issues are vital to social stability and that fragmented efforts and slow procedures require a shift toward comprehensive protection and early prevention.

Al-Sumait announced ongoing work on interconnected laws and reforms to family courts, aiming to expedite justice and protect children from the effects of prolonged disputes. He emphasized that family protection is a shared responsibility.

The two-day conference addresses legislative reform, digital services, and preventive programs. Minister of Social Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila revealed Cabinet approval of a comprehensive amendment to the Domestic Violence Law, providing a stronger legal framework aligned with international standards to enhance family protection and stability.

 Kuwait Cabinet Approves Comprehensive Amendment to Domestic Violence Law

Kuwait’s Cabinet has endorsed a full amendment to the Domestic Violence Law, strengthening the legal framework for family protection and aligning with international conventions and best practices.

Minister of Social Affairs and Family Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila, announced the decision at the opening of the Family and Child Protection Conference, emphasizing that the law will provide a more effective system to safeguard families and ensure stability.

She noted that the conference highlights Kuwait’s commitment to integrated family and child protection, combining legal, social, and institutional efforts. The two-day event addresses legislative reform, digital services, preventive programs, and family court development, with a focus on protecting children and resolving disputes efficiently while preserving family privacy and cohesion.

Al-Huwaila stressed that family protection is a national priority requiring coordinated roles across government and civil society to secure the future of generations.

 Nazaha Holds Workshop on Financial Disclosure Requirements

The Kuwait Anti-Corruption Authority (Nazaha) held an awareness workshop on financial disclosure statements for 83 liaison officers from government agencies.

Talal Al-Mutairi, Supervisor of Procedures and Databases, explained that financial disclosure under Law No. 2 of 2016 includes all assets, liabilities, and financial rights of the subject and their dependents, both inside and outside Kuwait.

The workshop outlined the categories required to submit disclosures, the responsibilities of liaison officers, and services offered by Nazaha, including deadline reminders and online access through the authority’s website and the Sahel app. Participants were briefed on types of disclosures, submission steps, and penalties for late filing.

Nazaha emphasized that the initiative aims to strengthen transparency, accountability, and compliance with anti-corruption regulations across government institutions.