KUWAIT: Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr Amthal Al-Huwailah reaffirmed Kuwait’s enduring role as a beacon of humanitarian giving and compassion, stressing the country’s long-standing legacy in relief and charitable work. Speaking to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on the occasion of the International Day of Charity, observed annually on September 5, Al-Huwailah said Kuwait, recognized by the United Nations as a global humanitarian center, continues to provide vital aid to disaster-stricken nations worldwide.
She highlighted Kuwait’s recent efforts in support of the Palestinian people in Gaza, citing the “Fazaa for Gaza” campaign organized in coordination with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defense, the Kuwait Red Crescent Society, and local charities, which raised KD 11.5 million (about $37.6 million) in only three days. Al-Huwailah also recalled Kuwait’s hosting of the international donor conference in May 2024, which secured more than $2 billion in aid for Gaza, in partnership with the International Islamic Charitable Organization and the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
Al-Huwailah stressed that Kuwait’s humanitarian outreach extends beyond emergency relief to include education and healthcare infrastructure in developing countries, making it a model for global efforts. She called for stronger cooperation with international organizations such as the UN and the Red Cross to address pressing global challenges, including conflicts and climate change, emphasizing that even modest contributions can have significant impact.
The minister expressed pride in Kuwait’s humanitarian legacy, recalling the UN’s honoring of the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah as a “Leader of Humanitarian Action.” She concluded with prayers for peace and stability under the leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah.
Meanwhile, the world observed the International Day of Charity on Thursday, a UN-designated occasion aimed at promoting values of giving and solidarity through voluntary and philanthropic work. The date, September 5, commemorates the anniversary of the passing of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize laureate remembered for her lifelong struggle against poverty and suffering.
Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS) Chairman Khaled Al-Mughamis said Kuwait has established itself as a global model in emergency relief and development assistance, guided by the country’s leadership and commitment to humanitarian values. Speaking to KUNA, he pointed to the “Fazaa for Gaza” campaign as well as Kuwait’s continued aid to crisis-affected populations in Sudan, Yemen, Syria, and among Rohingya and Syrian refugees.
Amid mounting humanitarian challenges, Al-Mughamis affirmed that KRCS remains at the forefront of relief efforts while contributing to sustainable development and community resilience. Director-General of Kuwait Zakat House Dr Majid Al-Azmi said the International Day of Charity underscores the importance of integrating charitable work into education, healthcare and social programs, while empowering vulnerable groups. He stressed that Zakat House remains committed to expanding its local and global role in line with the values of solidarity and giving that define Kuwaiti society.
Deputy Director-General of the International Islamic Charitable Organization (IICO) for Institutional Communication Ibrahim Al-Bader described the day as an opportunity to strengthen humanitarian solidarity and shared responsibility. He emphasized that charitable action requires cooperation among individuals, institutions, and governments to combat poverty and hunger while advancing education, healthcare and development.
Al-Bader reaffirmed the IICO’s commitment to its humanitarian mission under the guidance of Kuwait’s leadership and with the support of donors and volunteers. He described the International Day of Charity as an open invitation for all to join global humanitarian efforts and praised the dedication of philanthropists and volunteers worldwide. — KUNA
