The Indian Embassy in Kuwait is set to host a two-day Buyer-Seller Meet featuring Indian companies specializing in the Food and Agricultural sectors. This event will take place on September 9th and 10th, 2024, at the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry building.

Event Details

• Date and Time: September 9th and 10th, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM each day
• Venue: Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry Building

Participating Companies

Over 30 Indian companies will be represented, showcasing a wide range of products. Attendees can explore offerings in various sectors including:

• Food Products: Rice, cereals, grains, vegetables, meat, chicken, edible oils, millets, spices, coconut, biscuits, jaggery
• Packaging and Tableware: Areca palm leaf plates, wooden cutlery, birchwood cutlery, paper boxes, carrier bags
• Additional Products: Packaging products and more

Purpose of the Meet

This Buyer-Seller Meet aims to connect Kuwaiti buyers with Indian suppliers, fostering business relationships and exploring trade opportunities in the food and agricultural sectors.

Contact Information

For further details about the Buyer-Seller Meet, please contact the Embassy of India at:

• Email: com1.kuwait@mea.gov.in or trade.kuwait@mea.gov.in

In response to the persistent traffic congestion that intensifies with each new school year, a recent coordination meeting among Kuwait's government agencies has resulted in the implementation of 10 strategic measures aimed at alleviating traffic jams across the country.

1. Autonomous Traffic Control Systems

The introduction of autonomous traffic control systems will enable the automatic management of traffic lights, enhancing the efficiency of traffic flow. Additionally, the number of traffic violation cameras will be increased to ensure better compliance with traffic regulations.

2. Enhancing Public Transportation

Efforts are being made to promote public transportation, especially for students and private sector employees. Parents are particularly encouraged to use these services for their children, reducing the number of private vehicles on the roads.

3. Staggering School Shifts

To distribute traffic more evenly, school schedules will be adjusted, creating breaks between the start times of elementary, kindergarten, middle, and secondary school levels.

4. Infrastructure Improvements

Bridges will be constructed at heavily congested entrances and exits, facilitating smoother traffic flow and reducing bottlenecks in critical areas.

5. Road Maintenance and New Outlets

Internal roads will undergo maintenance, and new exits will be created to allow vehicles to move more easily from residential areas to expressways.

6. Redeveloping Major Roads

The redevelopment of the Fourth Ring Road will be accelerated, and improvements will be made to sections of the Sixth and Seventh Ring Roads, including the addition of bridges to enhance traffic movement.

7. Towing Illegally Parked Vehicles

Vehicles parked illegally in front of schools, particularly those in second rows or prohibited areas, will be towed to prevent obstructions and ensure smoother traffic flow.

8. Relocating Private Schools

Private schools currently situated in residential areas will be relocated to reduce congestion, especially during peak hours.

9. Restricting New School Licenses

To prevent further congestion, a ban on issuing licenses for new schools or universities within residential neighborhoods will be enforced.

10. Flexible and Expanded Road Lanes

Flexible lanes will be introduced, and the number of lanes on key roads will be increased to better accommodate traffic, especially during peak hours.

Kuwait's labor market is experiencing significant shifts as over 30,000 domestic workers have applied for transfers to the private sector under a new decision by the Public Authority for Manpower. Experts predict this number could reach 40,000 before the September 12 deadline, highlighting deep-rooted issues within the country's labor market.

According to Bassam Al-Shammari, an expert in domestic labor affairs, the surge in transfer requests underscores persistent imbalances in the labor market. These imbalances stem from a regulatory framework that has restricted worker recruitment, leading to disruptions across economic sectors and a shortage of workforce availability.

The decision, issued by Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, allows domestic workers to transfer to the private sector under certain conditions. While the transfer decision provides some relief to the severe labor shortages in the private sector, it also exposes flaws in the Public Authority for Manpower's procedures.

Al-Shammari acknowledged several positives of the transfer decision, such as addressing the acute labor shortage and reducing disputes among domestic workers, which has alleviated pressure on expatriate workers’ shelters. However, he also warned of the potential risks, including worsening shortages in the domestic sector, which could have far-reaching implications for households relying on domestic help.

Al-Shammari has advocated for extending the transfer period beyond September 12 or even making the option permanent to better align with the labor market's needs. This approach, he argued, would support Kuwait’s vision of becoming a global financial and commercial hub by ensuring a more stable and efficient labor market.

To prevent a labor crisis in the domestic sector, Al-Shammari urged government agencies to expedite agreements with labor-exporting countries. Such agreements would help mitigate the potential negative impacts of the large-scale transfer of domestic workers to the private sector, ensuring a steady supply of labor to meet Kuwait's growing needs.

As scams become more sophisticated, the methods used by fraudsters are evolving, targeting unsuspecting individuals through various schemes, including real estate deception. A recent incident in Kuwait highlights how tech-savvy scammers exploit social media and fake identities to trick potential renters.

The Rise of Real Estate Scams

Real estate scams have become increasingly common, with fraudsters using platforms like TikTok to pose as legitimate agents. These scammers often create fake profiles, gain followers, and post videos of attractive properties to lure in potential victims.

A Pakistani family in Kuwait recently fell victim to such a scam, losing 100 dinars in the process. The young man, identified as M.G., recounted how he found an apartment through a TikTok video uploaded by a so-called real estate agent. The agent, who appeared legitimate with a significant following, offered the family an apartment in Ishbilya at an attractive rate of 180 dinars per month.

The family visited the apartment and found it to their liking. Trusting the agent, who had even shared a copy of his Civil ID and the apartment's PACI number, they paid a 100-dinar down payment through a provided link. However, when they attempted to finalize the deal and meet the landlord, the agent made excuses, insisting the remainder of the payment be made via the link.

Suspicious of the agent's demands, the family decided to meet the landlord in person. Upon arrival, they were shocked to learn that the landlord had no knowledge of the agent and had not authorized anyone to handle the property. Realizing they had been scammed, the family reported the incident to the police.

MG's case turned out to be part of a larger operation targeting vacant apartments across Kuwait. Scammers took videos and photos of PACI numbers and used them to create fake listings. The police informed MG that three other families had reported similar scams involving the same fake agent.

This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of online real estate transactions. Despite the allure of convenient digital deals, it is crucial to remain vigilant. Always verify the authenticity of agents and landlords through official channels and be wary of making payments through unverified links.

Kuwait's industrial sector has seen a drastic decline in financing, with local banks reporting a decrease of KD 40.7 million, or 53.5%, in June 2024. This decline has brought the total financing for the sector down to KD 35.3 million, a sharp drop from KD 76 million in May.

Monthly and Annual Financing Trends

On an annual basis, industrial financing has also decreased by KD 8.8 million, or 19.9%, from KD 44.1 million in June 2023. Despite these significant declines, the total financing for the industrial sector during the first half of 2024 reached KD 333 million. However, the accumulated balance of industrial financing from local banks fell by 0.9%, or KD 26 million, bringing the total down to KD 2.657 billion compared to KD 2.683 billion in May.

Overall Decline in Industrial Financing

In comparison to last year, the sector has faced a 5.1% annual decrease, equivalent to KD 143 million, dropping from KD 2.8 billion in June 2023. Data from the Central Bank of Kuwait highlights that overall monthly financing for the industrial sector in 2023 decreased by 31%, or KD 466 million, from KD 1.499 billion at the end of 2022 to KD 1.033 billion.

Challenges Facing the Industrial Sector

The industrial sector has been grappling with numerous challenges, particularly over the past three years. These challenges, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, have included disruptions in supply chains, production halts, and reduced demand. The sector also continues to face issues such as:

Lack of Developed Industrial Plots: Insufficient infrastructure hampers growth and expansion opportunities.

Bureaucratic Hurdles: Complicated regulations slow down project approvals and financing.

Limited Reliance on National Products: This reduces competitiveness and increases dependency on imports.

Absence of Export Facilities: Without adequate facilities, exporting Kuwaiti goods becomes challenging.

These factors contribute to increased factory rents and a reduction in financing available for industrial projects.

Credit Facilities Overview

Despite the decline in industrial financing, monthly credit facilities across all sectors increased by 3%, or KD 359.5 million, in the first half of 2024, rising from KD 11.708 billion in 2023 to KD 12.067 billion. However, credit facilities dropped annually by 11%, equivalent to KD 239.4 million, from KD 2.171 billion in June 2023 to KD 2.099 billion in June 2024.

Credit Facility Balances and Deposits

Cash credit facilities with banks increased by 4.2%, from KD 53.557 billion at the end of December 2023 to KD 55.8 billion in June 2024. Monthly balances rose by 0.9%, or KD 510.7 million, from KD 55.297 billion in May, and grew by 5.3% annually, compared to KD 52.983 billion in June 2023.

Central Bank data also revealed a 1.16% increase in deposits at local banks, rising by KD 569.2 million, from KD 48.727 billion in December 2023 to KD 49.29 billion in June 2024. Annual deposits increased by 3%, or KD 1.457 billion, from KD 47.839 billion in June 2023. Private sector deposits grew by 3.1%, or KD 1.15 billion, while public institution deposits fell by 13.4%, or KD 909.9 million.

As Kuwait's industrial sector navigates these challenging waters, understanding the factors contributing to the decline in financing is crucial for stakeholders. A focus on overcoming bureaucratic hurdles, enhancing infrastructure, and fostering a more competitive environment may pave the way for future growth.

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance Kuwait's supply system and support subsidy reform initiatives, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is implementing tighter controls over subsidy distribution. These measures aim to reduce wastage and ensure that only those who truly qualify benefit from government subsidies. The new recommendations include a comprehensive review of supply records and closer collaboration with other government entities.

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has been instructed to work closely with the Ministry of Interior to link domestic worker sponsorships with the ration card system automatically. This integration will help keep the ration system up-to-date by excluding individuals who are no longer eligible for subsidies, such as those who have left the country or are no longer under valid sponsorship.

Recent discussions have highlighted concerns over the eligibility of domestic workers to receive full food rations. It has been noted that some rations may be distributed to individuals who do not deserve them, particularly in cases where domestic workers are registered under sponsors but may be working elsewhere, have fled, or have left the country without canceling their residencies.

A public opinion survey has led to several recommendations aimed at further improving the subsidy system. Among the suggestions is the need for rapid coordination with the Kuwait Municipality and other relevant authorities to allocate land for constructing multi-story buildings that will serve as points of sale and distribution for food supplies.

There is also a strong emphasis on maintaining and upgrading supply branch buildings. This includes improving the cleanliness of these facilities and enhancing storage and distribution capacities to meet growing demands. Additionally, there are calls to introduce online ordering and delivery services for food supplies, with a possibility of implementing car-based ordering and delivery options at supply branches.

Kuwait's push for tighter control over its subsidy system reflects a commitment to reducing wastage and ensuring that only eligible individuals benefit from government support. By implementing these measures and considering public recommendations, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is working towards a more efficient and equitable subsidy distribution system.

When a case of monkeypox is suspected, the treating physician must promptly notify the nearest preventive center by phone and submit a written report. The report, labeled "Rash For Investigation," should indicate whether the case is suspected, probable, or confirmed. This report must then be sent to the nearest preventive health center for further action.

The preventive health physician at the hospital or preventive center must immediately inform the head of public health services in the region. The infectious disease notification form, along with the case details, is then forwarded to the contact officer in the Infectious Disease Control Department via phone or WhatsApp. This ensures that all relevant departments are aware and can take necessary actions.

For suspected monkeypox cases requiring hospitalization, the following steps must be taken:

The preventive physician completes the investigation form.

The patient is isolated in a designated room with strict infection prevention measures in place.

The physician monitors the final laboratory results.

If confirmed, the case is managed according to the established protocols.

Non-Hospitalized Cases

If hospitalization is deemed unnecessary:

The investigation form is still completed by the preventive physician.

The patient receives health education to ensure home isolation and adherence to infection prevention measures.

The physician continues to monitor laboratory results.

Upon confirmation, the case is managed as per the standard protocols.

Managing Contacts of Confirmed Cases

The guidelines emphasize the importance of managing contacts of confirmed monkeypox cases. The preventive physician at the center associated with the contact’s residence is responsible for identifying and monitoring all contacts. This includes daily follow-ups for 21 days, either in person or via phone, to check for symptoms such as fever.

Contacts are provided with health education, focusing on recognizing symptoms, understanding transmission methods, and maintaining hygiene. If any contact develops symptoms, they are referred to the hospital for further diagnosis and treatment. Should the contact be confirmed as infected, the standard procedures are followed.

The Ministry of Health's guidelines ensure a robust response to monkeypox, focusing on prompt reporting, thorough case management, and vigilant monitoring of contacts. These measures are crucial for containing the spread of the virus and protecting public health in Kuwait.

With the appearance of the Suhail star on the southern horizon of the Arabian Peninsula by Saturday, August 24, Kuwait's unusually hot weather is set to improve. The Suhail star, often referred to as the "noble star" or "bright star" in the region, signifies the end of summer.

As Suhail makes its appearance, Kuwait will experience a gradual moderation in weather conditions. The intense summer heat will give way to cooler temperatures, and the duration of daylight will shorten while nights will become longer.

The emergence of Suhail also marks the beginning of the farming season in Kuwait. This period is traditionally associated with the start of the rain season and the harvest of dates, which are crucial for the local agriculture.

As the region transitions into a milder climate, residents can expect more moderate temperatures and reduced daytime heat. This change is welcome news for both the farming community and the general population, offering relief from the intense summer conditions.

In exciting news for travelers, the Sri Lankan government has introduced visa-free entry for citizens from 35 countries, including India, the UK, and the US, starting October 1, 2024. This move aims to boost tourism and facilitate easier access to the stunning island nation.

Minister of Tourism Harin Fernando confirmed the new policy, stating, "This visa-free entry will be available for a period of six months," as reported by news agency PTI. This decision follows an interim order by the Supreme Court on August 2, which led to the suspension of the e-visa portal managed by IVS-GBS and VFS Global.

Previously, Indian travelers enjoyed a free visa extension that ended on May 31, 2024. Post this period, they had to apply for an e-visa or opt for a visa on arrival. With the e-visa service currently suspended, Indian travelers can still opt for the visa-on-arrival option until the new visa-free regime begins on October 1. The current visa fee stands at $50 (approximately Rs 4,197).

The new visa-free access will apply to travelers from a broad range of countries. The full list includes:

• Europe: UK, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden
• Asia: India, China, US, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Nepal, Bahrain, Oman, Iran
• Others: Australia, Poland, Kazakhstan, Russia, Thailand, Canada, Czech Republic, Israel, Belarus, New Zealand

This initiative is expected to simplify travel arrangements and encourage more tourists to explore Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

For the latest updates and details about travel policies, travelers are encouraged to check official sources or consult with travel agencies.

The PAM study highlights several critical changes aimed at increasing the employment of Kuwaitis in the private sector. One of the most significant proposals is the increase in fines for companies that fail to meet the mandated Kuwaitization rates. The penalty is set to rise from KD 100 to KD 300, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enforcing these quotas.

Sector-Specific Kuwaitization Quotas

- Oil Sector: The study proposes increasing the Kuwaitization rate in the oil sector to 50%, reflecting the sector's strategic importance to the national economy.

- Other Sectors: In other industries, the Kuwaitization rate could be raised to around 30%, ensuring a more significant presence of Kuwaiti employees across various economic areas.

Protecting Kuwaiti Workers in the Private Sector

To further support Kuwaiti workers, the study suggests imposing strict penalties on private companies that unjustifiably terminate national employees. These penalties may include suspending the company’s operational files, effectively halting their business activities.

Addressing Disparities Between Public and Private Sector Salaries

Another focus of the study is the disparity in salaries and job benefits between public and private sector workers. The government aims to narrow this gap to make private sector jobs more attractive to Kuwaiti citizens, thereby reducing the reliance on government employment.

Recent data from the Public Authority for Civil Information shows that as of mid-2024, there were approximately 404,900 Kuwaiti workers in the government sector, compared to 397,500 at the end of 2023. Meanwhile, the number of Kuwaitis employed in the private sector stood at about 72,800 by the end of June 2024. These figures underscore the ongoing challenges in shifting the workforce balance towards the private sector.

The increased fines and stricter regulations reflect Kuwait’s ongoing efforts to enforce Kuwaitization and ensure the integration of more Kuwaiti youth into the private sector. As these policies are implemented, the private sector must adapt to meet these new requirements, ensuring compliance and contributing to the nation’s economic goals.

The Higher Tenders Committee at Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) has taken a decisive step by banning the company responsible for the Mangaf property, where a tragic fire incident occurred in June, from participating in any tenders issued by KPC and its subsidiaries. This decision comes in the wake of a deadly incident that resulted in the loss of dozens of lives, primarily among Asian workers.

Background on the Mangaf Fire Incident

In June, a devastating fire broke out at the Mangaf property, leading to significant casualties and prompting an immediate investigation. The company involved, established in 1977, is recognized for its extensive experience in the field, operating across Kuwait and the Gulf region.

Banning Decision and Official Reactions

According to sources familiar with the committee's proceedings, the ban reflects the gravity of the situation. However, an official source from KPC expressed surprise at this move, noting that the Public Prosecution had only referred the company's case to the Investigations Department for further examination, which is set for the Misdemeanor Court, not the Criminal Court.

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation's Objectives

KPC is among the largest integrated oil and gas companies globally and aims to achieve significant goals, including:

Carbon Neutrality by 2050: Aligning with global environmental standards and improving sustainability practices.

Enhancing Quality of Life: Investing in community welfare and environmental initiatives.

Planet Care: Focusing on responsible resource management and environmental stewardship.

Impact on the Industry

This ban not only impacts the company involved but also sends a strong message to other firms about the consequences of negligence regarding safety and regulatory compliance. KPC’s commitment to safety and ethical standards is reinforced through this action.

Conclusion

The ban on the company linked to the Mangaf fire highlights Kuwait Petroleum Corporation's commitment to upholding safety and ethical practices within the industry. As investigations continue, the decision reflects KPC’s efforts to maintain high standards and protect the welfare of workers across the region.

In an era where digital privacy is more critical than ever, WhatsApp has introduced a revolutionary feature that could change the way we interact on the platform. The Meta-owned instant messaging giant is rolling out an advanced username feature, paired with optional PIN protection, designed to give users more control over their privacy and communication.

The WhatsApp username feature allows users to create a unique username that others can use to contact them on WhatsApp, without needing to share their phone number. This feature is part of WhatsApp’s continuous effort to enhance user privacy and security, making the platform safer and more user-friendly.

How Does It Work?

• Username Creation: Users can create a unique username that will serve as an identifier on WhatsApp. This username will be used for all new interactions, allowing users to keep their phone numbers private.
• PIN Protection: To prevent unauthorized sharing, WhatsApp offers an optional PIN protection for usernames. This PIN must be entered before the username can be shared with new contacts, adding an extra layer of security.

Why Is This Feature Important?

1. Enhanced Privacy: The new feature is especially beneficial for users who value their privacy. By using a username instead of a phone number, individuals can communicate freely without exposing their personal information.
2. Spam Reduction: As the feature requires users to share their username instead of their phone number, it significantly reduces the chances of receiving spam or unsolicited messages. This is a crucial step in curbing the spread of spam on the platform.
3. Control Over Contacts: Users now have the flexibility to choose who they interact with, as only those who have the username can initiate contact. This reduces the likelihood of unwanted communications and helps maintain a clean and secure contact list.

How to Set Up Your WhatsApp Username

1. Update Your App: Ensure that you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed.
2. Navigate to Settings: Open WhatsApp and go to the settings menu.
3. Create Your Username: Select the option to create a username. Make sure it’s unique and easy to remember.
4. Set Up Your PIN: For added security, set up a PIN that will be required to share your username with others.

Additional Benefits of WhatsApp Username

Cross-Platform Usability: This feature is available across all platforms where WhatsApp is supported, ensuring that users can maintain the same level of privacy, whether they are using Android, iOS, or web versions of WhatsApp.

Control Over Existing Contacts: Even though this feature primarily targets new interactions, existing contacts who already have your phone number will still see it. However, for all future interactions, you can opt to use your username, ensuring that your phone number remains private in new conversations.

Simple and User-Friendly: The process of creating and using a WhatsApp username is designed to be straightforward, ensuring that even users with minimal technical skills can take advantage of this feature.

Potential Challenges and User Feedback

While the feature is a significant step forward in privacy protection, it also comes with potential challenges. Users need to remember their PIN, and there may be a learning curve as people adjust to using usernames instead of phone numbers. However, early feedback from beta users has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the added layer of control and privacy it offers.

The Future of WhatsApp Usernames

As WhatsApp continues to roll out this feature globally, it is expected to set a new standard in privacy for messaging apps. The introduction of usernames is just the beginning, with further enhancements likely to follow, such as expanded privacy settings and additional security measures.

The WhatsApp username feature represents a significant shift in how users will manage their privacy on the platform. By enabling communication through usernames, WhatsApp is not only enhancing user privacy but also paving the way for a safer and more secure messaging experience.

Question:

My salary is 700 KD on my work permit. My wife is already in Kuwait and working on her company’s residency. I want to transfer her residency to a family visa under my sponsorship. Is this possible given that my salary is less than 800 KD? Does the new rule requiring a salary of 800 KD apply to those who are already in Kuwait?

Answer:

Yes, you can transfer your spouse's residency from a work visa to a family visa in Kuwait with a salary of less than 800 KD if your spouse is already residing in Kuwait. The new rule requiring a minimum salary of 800 KD primarily applies to new applications for family visas from individuals whose family members are outside of Kuwait.

Since your wife is already in Kuwait, the new 800 KD salary requirement does not apply to your case. You should be able to proceed with the transfer under the current regulations with your 700 KD salary. However, it is still advisable to consult with the immigration authorities to confirm that there have been no recent changes to the regulations or to determine if there are any specific requirements you need to fulfill.

Key Considerations:

• New Rule Enforcement: The 800 KD minimum salary requirement is enforced for new family visa applications from outside Kuwait.
• Existing Residents: Those who are already residing in Kuwait, like your wife, can transfer to a family visa without meeting the 800 KD salary requirement.
• Consultation Recommended: It is always a good idea to verify your eligibility directly with the immigration department to ensure you are up to date with any recent changes.

As regional tensions escalate, Kuwait's government is taking proactive steps to ensure the country's preparedness and stability. In response to directives from the Council of Ministers, various government agencies are implementing measures to address potential scenarios, secure essential services, and maintain business continuity. These efforts are focused on protecting the interests of both citizens and residents.

Sources confirm that Kuwait's strategic food stock remains secure and sufficient to meet the needs of the population. Authorities are concentrating on ensuring a continuous supply of food and enhancing food security and safety. This commitment is crucial given the exceptional circumstances currently impacting the region.

The government has mandated the implementation of emergency measures across different sectors. This includes close coordination with private sector entities, such as companies, institutions, and hospitals. These collaborations focus on maintaining the strategic stock of food and medicine and strengthening cooperation between public and private sectors.

During a meeting on August 6, the Council of Ministers received updates from ministers on the precautionary measures being undertaken by relevant government agencies. Each agency is working within its area of responsibility to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to protect the nation and its people.

As the new academic year approaches, the Ministry of Education in Kuwait is taking proactive measures to ensure a healthy environment for students across all educational levels. A significant part of this initiative involves regulating the food offered in school canteens.

The Ministry has approved a selection of nutritious food items, such as juices, pies, milk, sandwiches, various types of biscuits, crackers, salads, and fruits, for sale in school cafeterias. However, to promote healthier eating habits among students, seven specific food items have been banned. These include soft drinks, canned juices, sports drinks, energy drinks, and certain processed foods.

List of Prohibited Foods

The General Authority for Food and Nutrition, in collaboration with the Ministry, has outlined the following list of banned food items in school canteens:

All types of soft drinks

All canned fruit juices

Sports drinks and energy drinks

Chewing gum, lollipops, candy, and sweets

French fries and processed meats, such as sausages

Pickles, mayonnaise, and fatty sauces

Strict Standards for Approved Food Items

To ensure the highest quality and safety, the Ministry has approved 14 food companies to supply items that meet the stringent standards set by the General Authority for Food and Nutrition. These standards emphasize the importance of fresh, healthy food options for students. For instance, milk products, sandwiches, pies, and pastries must be delivered fresh on the day they are made. Additionally, items that have passed more than half of their shelf life or are packaged in damaged containers are not allowed. Glass containers are also prohibited in school cafeterias.

In preparation for the upcoming school year, the Ministry’s Educational Facilities Sector has instructed its engineering teams to ensure that all school facilities are ready by early September. This comprehensive approach aims to provide students with a smooth and healthy start to their academic journey.

The issue of housemaids fleeing their employers has become a growing concern in Kuwait, disrupting the daily lives of many citizens. This problem is often linked to fraudulent labor recruitment offices and brokers who entice domestic workers with promises of better-paying jobs in various sectors, including restaurants, cafés, and gyms.

Lawyers in Kuwait have emphasized the importance of taking immediate action when a housemaid absconds. The first step involves filing an absence report and consulting the Labor Recruitment Department at the Public Authority for Manpower (PAM). If the housemaid has been employed for less than six months, the recruitment office is obligated to refund the recruitment fees and cover the cost of return tickets. Additionally, citizens have the legal right to file a civil lawsuit seeking damages of up to KD500.

Security authorities have issued stern warnings against sheltering or employing runaway housemaids, as these individuals often violate Residency and Labor laws. Citizens and residents who provide refuge or conceal the whereabouts of these workers could face legal consequences. Cooperation with security agencies is crucial in addressing this issue, authorities have stressed.

In response to this ongoing problem, PAM has established a clear mechanism to handle cases where domestic workers leave their employers without notice. The procedure begins with filing an absence report at one of the Ministry of Interior’s citizens service centers. This is followed by lodging a complaint with the Department of Regulating the Recruitment of Domestic Workers at PAM. If the maid has been employed for less than six months, the recruitment office is required to compensate the employer. For cases where the sponsorship period has ended, the matter is referred to the judiciary to determine responsibility for compensation and the cost of the return ticket.

PAM and security sources have also cautioned against engaging with unlicensed recruitment agencies that promote hourly-paid domestic workers through various media, including social networking sites. These operations are often scams, and employers are advised to only deal with agencies approved by the Ministry of Interior. A joint team from the Residency Affairs Investigation General Department and the Residency Affairs General Department is actively monitoring and taking legal action against those behind fraudulent advertisements.

The Ministry of Education (MoE) in Kuwait has recently integrated a new ‘scan’ function into its official mail and correspondence system, specifically designed to streamline the verification of employee tasks. This innovative feature allows employees assigned to official tasks to bypass the traditional fingerprint attendance system, as their attendance is automatically recorded through the new system during the completion of these tasks. This integration with administrative and financial operations ensures a seamless process for tracking and managing official assignments.

According to educational sources, the new system includes several core functions, such as scanning official documents and uploading them to an electronic system. This allows for easy retrieval and search of documents when needed. Moreover, the system is designed to send notifications via e-mail or text messages, informing employees of any new tasks or updates to their assigned duties. This automated feature not only improves task management but also ensures that employees remain informed and updated on their responsibilities.

The integration of the ‘scan’ feature with the attendance system is a significant advancement. Employees no longer need to use the fingerprint attendance device while performing official tasks, as their attendance status is updated automatically. This update provides a more efficient way to manage attendance, particularly for employees who are frequently engaged in official duties outside the office. The system also allows for real-time follow-up on task completion, ensuring that all assignments are tracked and verified promptly.

In addition to the new task management feature, the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition (PAFN), has approved a list of healthy foods permitted to be sold in school cafeterias. The approved list includes items such as brown bread sandwiches with natural ingredients like vegetables and cheese, natural juices without added sugars, and low-fat milk enriched with calcium and vitamins.

The ministry has also outlined specific food and drink items that are prohibited in school cafeterias. These include soft drinks, energy drinks, high-sugar sweets, fried foods, and fast food. The ministry has signed contracts with local companies specializing in providing healthy food options, ensuring strict adherence to quality and safety standards for foods sold in schools.

Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health, and Dr. Al-Mundhir Al-Hassawi, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Affairs, recently visited the Kuwait Center for Disease Prevention and Control. This inspection aimed to assess progress, review health monitoring efforts, and enhance preventive measures to ensure Kuwait’s readiness for emerging health threats.

During their visit, Dr. Al-Mutairi reviewed current plans for monitoring global health developments, particularly in light of the recent "global health emergency" declaration due to monkeypox outbreaks worldwide. He praised the dedication of the center's staff and emphasized the importance of inter-sectoral cooperation to address potential health threats effectively. Dr. Al-Mutairi confirmed that the ministry is taking all necessary precautions to safeguard the health of both citizens and expatriates and is committed to supporting the center’s efforts to maintain high operational efficiency.

Dr. Al-Mundhir Al-Hassawi highlighted that the center's monitoring teams are actively tracking global epidemiological trends and maintaining communication with international health organizations to stay updated on developments. Dr. Ahmad Al-Mutawa, Director of the Infection Prevention Department, assured that Kuwait’s health system is well-prepared to manage monkeypox cases if they arise. He noted that Kuwait has robust systems for testing, diagnosis, and treatment, including available vaccines.

Difference Between Monkeypox and COVID-19

In an interview with Kuwait TV, Dr. Al-Mutawa explained that handling monkeypox differs significantly from dealing with COVID-19. Unlike COVID-19, which posed unprecedented challenges due to lack of prior knowledge, monkeypox is a well-understood virus with established diagnostic methods, treatments, and vaccines. He emphasized that Kuwait’s health infrastructure is strong and capable of effectively managing monkeypox, should it enter the country.

Kuwait’s proactive measures and comprehensive preparedness strategies position its health system to effectively confront the monkeypox virus. The Ministry of Health’s ongoing efforts ensure that Kuwait remains equipped with the necessary resources and expertise to handle any emerging health challenges.