Notice Board

Kuwait will implement service charge increases and cut subsidies to achieve financial stability

 
 
 

The Finance Ministry of Kuwait is set to implement significant measures aimed at achieving "financial sustainability." These measures include increasing charges for public services, reducing subsidy bills, and capping public spending, as reported by Kuwait Times.

Financial Status and Projections

Finance Minister Dr. Anwar Al-Mudhaf highlighted the dire state of the country's finances, revealing that state reserve assets have dramatically decreased from KD 33.6 billion in 2015/2016 to less than KD 2 billion currently. This reduction is attributed to meeting cumulative budget deficits totaling KD 32.2 billion over the past nine fiscal years. The ministry projects a bleak financial outlook for the next four fiscal years (2025/2026 to 2028/2029), estimating an accumulated budget deficit of KD 26 billion if the status quo is maintained, assuming oil prices average $76 per barrel.

Diversification of Income Sources

To address this financial challenge, the ministry plans to diversify Kuwait's income sources and reduce the near-total dependence on oil revenue. The aim is to increase non-oil revenues from KD 2.7 billion currently to KD 4 billion by the 2027/2028 fiscal year.

Planned Measures

The ministry's strategy involves:

  • Raising Charges for Public Services: Adjusting fees for various public services to increase government revenue.
  • Reducing Subsidy Bills: Cutting down on the extensive subsidies that contribute to the budget deficit.
  • Capping Public Spending: Implementing strict limits on public spending to control the fiscal deficit.

Implications for Kuwait's Economy

These measures are essential for ensuring the sustainability of Kuwait's finances. The diversification of income sources and prudent fiscal management are expected to stabilize the economy, reduce deficits, and secure financial stability in the long term.

 
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Kuwait Allows Residency Transfer from Domestic Visa to Private Sector: Key Conditions and Procedures

 
 
 

The Public Authority for Manpower (PAM) in Kuwait has announced a new opportunity for domestic workers to transfer their residencies from Article 20 to Article 18, facilitating their transition to the private sector. Starting from Sunday, July 14, this initiative will be open for two months.

Understanding the Residency Transfer Initiative

The decision by PAM is a significant move aimed at providing domestic workers more flexibility and opportunities within Kuwait’s labor market. This change allows domestic workers, who are currently under Article 20, to transfer to private sector employment under Article 18.

Conditions for Approval

The transfer process comes with specific conditions that must be met for approval:

  1. Employer Attendance: The employer must be present in person during the application process.
  2. Ministry of Interior Approval: The Ministry of Interior’s General Department for Residency Affairs must verify and approve that the sponsor agrees to the residency transfer.
  3. Residency Duration: Applicants must provide documents proving they have resided in Kuwait for at least one year.

Required Documents and Procedures

Applicants need to prepare several documents to facilitate the transfer:

  • Proof of residency in Kuwait for a minimum of one year.
  • A letter of approval from the current sponsor.
  • Identification and residency documents of both the worker and the employer.

Benefits of the Residency Transfer

This initiative benefits domestic workers by offering them the opportunity to explore broader employment prospects in the private sector, potentially leading to better working conditions and improved career growth. Employers in the private sector also gain access to a new pool of experienced and dedicated workers.

This move is expected to have a positive impact on the labor market in Kuwait, ensuring a more dynamic and flexible workforce.

 
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WhatsApp's new feature will soon translate chat messages in-app

 
 
 

That's indeed exciting news for WhatsApp users! The upcoming feature to translate messages directly within the app is a game-changer, especially for those who communicate across different languages frequently. The fact that it will utilize a language pack within the app itself, maintaining end-to-end encryption, ensures privacy while enhancing usability. 

Initially supporting languages like English, Arabic, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, and Hindi covers a broad spectrum of users, but it's promising to hear that more languages could be added in future updates. This feature will undoubtedly make communication smoother and more accessible, whether for personal or professional use. It's always great to see technology evolving to better connect people globally!

 
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PACI deletes an additional 269 residential addresses

 
 
 

The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) in Kuwait has recently initiated a process of deleting residential addresses from its records. This action affects 269 addresses, which have been removed due to either the declaration by the building owner or the demolition of the respective buildings.

According to the announcement published in the newspaper "Kuwait Ayloum," individuals whose addresses have been deleted must take immediate action. They are required to visit the PACI within 30 days from the date of the announcement to register their new address. It's crucial that they provide supporting documents during this visit to avoid potential penalties.

Failure to comply with this requirement is governed by Article 33 of Law No. 32 of 1982. According to this law, individuals who fail to register their new address within the specified timeframe may face fines. The penalty can amount to up to 100 Kuwaiti dinars multiplied by the number of persons involved. Therefore, affected individuals should promptly adhere to the PACI's directive to update their residential information to avoid any legal consequences.

 
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Electrical load that breaks records

 
 
 

The heat wave sweeping across the country has significantly increased the electricity load index. Recently, Kuwait recorded its highest electrical load in history, reaching 17,120 megawatts, surpassing previous records set earlier this summer.

Record High Electrical Load

The ongoing heat wave has placed immense pressure on the country's electrical infrastructure, pushing the load index to unprecedented levels. The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy is closely monitoring the situation to manage the increased demand.

Power Outages in Ali Sabah Al-Salem

The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy announced that three sub-feeders from the main transformer station in Mina Abdullah "M" went out of service yesterday afternoon. This led to a power outage in limited parts of the Ali Sabah Al-Salem area. Emergency teams are on-site, working diligently to restore power and ensure the stability of the electrical grid.

Power Outage in Rumaithiya

In a separate incident, the failure of two sub-feeders from the main transformer station in Salwa caused a power outage in parts of Block (1) in the Rumaithiya area. Emergency response teams are addressing the issue to restore electricity as quickly as possible.

 
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Job Opening At Ahmadi Hospital For Kuwaitis And Expats

 
 
 

The Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) is currently offering job opportunities in the medical field, inviting both experienced Kuwaitis and expatriates residing in Kuwait to apply for positions at its Al-Ahmadi Hospital. Here are the key details of the job openings and the services provided by the hospital:

  1. Job Opportunities: KOC is seeking professionals in various medical specializations including:
    • Dentistry
    • Hearing and vision therapy
    • Nutrition
    • Pharmacy
    • Radiology
    • Physiotherapy
    • Laboratory technician roles
    • Oral and dental health technician roles
    • And others related to medical and healthcare services.
  2. Application Deadline: Interested candidates can submit their applications until July 24. This allows sufficient time for qualified individuals to apply and be considered for the positions available.
  3. Requirements for Expatriates: Expatriate applicants must have a transferable visa in addition to meeting the necessary qualifications for their respective medical specializations. This requirement ensures that candidates are legally eligible to work in Kuwait under current regulations.
  4. Al-Ahmadi Hospital Services: The Al-Ahmadi Hospital, affiliated with KOC, provides a comprehensive range of medical services, including:
    • Treatment for accidents and emergencies
    • Internal medicine
    • General practice
    • General surgery
    • Orthopedics
    • Dermatology
    • Obstetrics and gynecology
    • Pediatrics
    • Ophthalmology
    • Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) care
    • Dentistry
    • Preventive medical services
    • Radiology
    • Anesthesia
    • Physiotherapy
    • Food services

This diverse array of medical services underscores the hospital’s commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare to its employees and the community. The job openings present an opportunity for qualified professionals to contribute to the healthcare sector in Kuwait under the auspices of KOC and its medical facility.

Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply promptly to be considered for these positions within the specified application period.

 
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Rising costs of food at restaurants as shipping expenses soar in Kuwait

 
 
 

The impact of global economic challenges on Kuwait's food prices, as highlighted by Mishaal Al-Manea and Fahd Al-Arbash, underscores significant issues facing consumers and businesses alike:

  1. Rising Operating Costs: Restaurants in Kuwait are grappling with increased operating costs, driven primarily by higher prices for basic commodities like chicken. For instance, imported frozen chicken prices have surged from 600 to 900 fils, while local chicken prices have risen to 1,250 dinars. This increase is attributed to global production declines and logistical challenges.
  2. Global Economic Turmoil: Factors such as military operations in the Red Sea, the Ukraine conflict, and broader Middle East tensions have disrupted global supply chains. These disruptions, compounded by ongoing COVID-19 impacts, have led to inflation in producing countries and increased shipping costs, directly affecting prices in Kuwait.
  3. Local Economic Implications: Kuwait has not been immune to these global risks, with food prices rising significantly in the first half of the year. Price increases range from 10 to 30 percent across different commodities, impacting both consumer purchasing power and business profitability.
  4. Challenges for Restaurants: Restaurant owners are constrained by strict regulatory controls from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, which prevent them from adjusting meal prices without approval. Some argue that current price levels do not reflect the true cost of operations and may compromise food quality over time.
  5. Policy Recommendations: To mitigate these challenges, experts like Al-Manea and Al-Arbash advocate for policies that support local production, improve transportation infrastructure to reduce costs, and target support measures specifically to low-income families. They also stress the importance of liberalizing meal prices to reflect market realities and combat potential fraud in the restaurant sector.

Overall, the situation in Kuwait reflects broader global economic pressures impacting food security, inflation rates, and business operations. Addressing these issues will require coordinated efforts from government entities, businesses, and consumers to ensure sustainable economic resilience and food affordability in the face of ongoing global uncertainties.

 
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Kuwait Prepares For Severe Heat Wave as Temperature to Soar Above 52°C

 
 
 

Scientists predict that July 2024 will be one of the hottest months on record worldwide. Kuwait is set to experience a severe heat wave over the weekend, with temperatures possibly exceeding 52 degrees Celsius.

Rising Temperatures in Kuwait

Meteorologist Fahad Al-Otaibi has informed that Kuwait will be affected by a high-pressure system combined with the seasonal Indian depression. Starting from Tuesday, temperatures are expected to rise gradually, reaching 48 degrees Celsius, climbing to 49 degrees on Wednesday, and peaking at 52 degrees Celsius on Thursday and Friday.

Heat Wave Advisory

Al-Otaibi advised citizens and residents to avoid direct sunlight during the day and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. The extreme heat poses significant health risks, and it is crucial to take precautions to stay safe during this period.

Impact of High-Pressure Systems

Director of the Meteorology Department, Abdulaziz Al-Qarawi, echoed these concerns in a statement to KUNA, highlighting that the severe heat wave will impact the country over the weekend. He predicted that maximum temperatures would exceed 50 degrees Celsius in some areas. Al-Qarawi attributed this extreme weather to a high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere coupled with the seasonal Indian low-pressure system on the earth’s surface, which brings an extremely hot air mass to the region, particularly affecting desert areas.

Global Perspective on Rising Temperatures

NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies reported that July 2023 was the hottest month ever recorded globally. With temperatures continuing to rise, scientists fear that July 2024 may surpass last year’s record, making it the hottest month in recorded history.

Why July is the Hottest Month

July is typically the hottest month of the year in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere due to the summer solstice, when the Northern Hemisphere is most directly tilted toward the sun, resulting in maximum solar exposure.

Conclusion

As Kuwait prepares for this extreme heat wave, it is important for everyone to take necessary precautions to stay safe. Avoiding direct sunlight, staying hydrated, and being aware of the weather forecast can help mitigate the risks associated with such high temperatures.

 
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Authority to verify the degrees of Kuwaiti and expat employees

 
 
 

The Environment Public Authority (EPA) of Kuwait has initiated a process to review the academic certificates of its employees, both Kuwaiti citizens and expatriates. This decision comes following a directive from the Civil Service Commission (CSC) regarding the examination of educational qualifications.

Key points from the announcement and subsequent actions include:

  1. Formation of Review Team: Eng. Samira Mohammad Al-Kandari, the acting Director General of the EPA, has formed a dedicated team. This team is tasked with sorting and examining the post-secondary educational certificates of EPA employees who obtained their academic qualifications from January 1, 2000, onwards.
  2. Verification Process: The primary objective of this initiative is to verify the authenticity of academic certificates held by EPA employees. The review will adhere to principles and standards set by higher education authorities to ensure the validity and legitimacy of qualifications.
  3. Legal Action Against Fraudulent Certificates: Concurrently, the Public Authority for Persons with Disabilities has called upon individuals possessing evidence of certificate purchase or fraudulent acquisition to come forward. This step aims to address any discrepancies or irregularities in educational credentials through legal means.
  4. Reporting and Compliance: Once the review is completed, the team will compile a detailed report on their findings and audit results. This report will be submitted to the Civil Service Commission for further assessment and appropriate actions.

This proactive approach by the EPA underscores the importance of maintaining integrity and credibility in the qualifications held by its workforce. By conducting a thorough examination and ensuring compliance with educational standards, the authority aims to uphold transparency and meritocracy in its staffing processes.

 
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MoI Issues Warning About Fake Chalet Rentals

 
 
 

The Ministry of Interior's recent warning regarding fictitious chalet rentals underscores a significant issue with electronic fraud in Kuwait. Here's a breakdown of the key points from their advisory:

  1. Nature of the Issue: The Ministry has highlighted concerns about unreliable accounts offering fake chalet rentals. This issue was brought to attention by Al-Seyassah newspaper's coverage on June 6, which exposed risks associated with fraudulent rental schemes.
  2. Emerging Trend: Fictitious chalet rentals are identified as part of an emerging trend in fraudulent activities. This trend has prompted authorities to caution the public against engaging with such offers without thorough verification.
  3. Importance of Vigilance: There's an emphasis on the importance of vigilance among citizens and residents. The Ministry advises individuals to exercise caution and scrutiny when dealing with online rental platforms to avoid becoming victims of electronic fraud.
  4. Verification and Reporting: Individuals are urged to verify the legitimacy of rental offers before making any financial transactions. Moreover, any suspicious activities related to fake chalet rentals should be promptly reported to law enforcement authorities.
  5. Government Response: The Ministry of Interior is actively monitoring and addressing concerns related to electronic fraud. Their goal is to safeguard the interests and security of the public, particularly in rental transactions.

This advisory serves as a proactive measure to protect individuals from falling prey to scams involving fictitious chalet rentals. It underscores the need for awareness and diligence when conducting transactions online, particularly in the realm of rental accommodations.

 
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In Kuwait, jail time will be replaced by community service

 
 
 

Minister of Justice and Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Mohammad Al-Wasmi has unveiled significant legislative and administrative initiatives aimed at reforming judicial processes and enhancing environmental sustainability in Kuwait. Here are the key points reported by Al-Qabas daily:

  1. New Law on Alternative Procedures and Penalties:
    • A new law is being drafted to introduce alternative penalties, such as community service, instead of imprisonment for certain misdemeanor crimes. This includes offenses like traffic violations, violations of municipality laws, and breaches of the printing and publishing law.
    • The objective is to utilize convicts for the benefit of society while reducing the reliance on imprisonment, particularly for minor offenses.
  2. Judicial Improvements:
    • The Public Prosecution plans to recruit additional public prosecutors to bolster the judiciary and expedite court rulings. Simplifying procedures and expediting case progress are top priorities for the government.
  3. Online Trials Initiative:
    • Regulations will be issued to enable online trials for certain types of cases. This initiative will initially be piloted in select courts, with plans to expand it based on its effectiveness.
    • The aim is to modernize judicial proceedings and enhance accessibility while adapting to digital advancements in legal practices.
  4. Environmentally-Friendly Mosques:
    • The Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs is set to construct environmentally-friendly mosques equipped with sustainable electricity and water systems.
    • A committee of construction and design specialists has been tasked with developing a model for these mosques, particularly focusing on new residential areas.

These initiatives underscore Kuwait's commitment to legal reform, judicial efficiency, and sustainable development in its infrastructure projects, particularly within the realms of justice and religious affairs. The introduction of alternative penalties aims to align with international best practices while addressing local judicial needs, and the focus on eco-friendly mosques reflects efforts towards environmental responsibility and resource conservation.

 
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Kuwait prepares for extremely high temperatures

 
 
 

The Kuwait Meteorological Center has issued a forecast indicating a significant heatwave affecting the country over the upcoming weekend. Here are the key points from the statement by Director General Abdulaziz Al-Qarawi to KUNA:

  1. Temperature Surge: Temperatures are expected to exceed 50 degrees Celsius in some areas, indicating extremely hot conditions.
  2. Weather Progression:
    • Thursday: The weather will start becoming notably hot.
    • Friday: The country will experience intense heat accompanied by unsteady north-westerly winds. These winds are forecasted to carry dust, potentially reducing visibility in open areas.
  3. Impact on Residents:
    • Such high temperatures pose health risks, including heat-related illnesses. It's crucial for residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, and take precautions against heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
  4. Environmental Impact: The dust-laden winds can exacerbate air quality issues and impact respiratory health, particularly for those with respiratory conditions.
  5. Preparedness Measures:
    • Authorities and residents are advised to stay informed through official weather updates and adhere to safety guidelines issued during heatwaves.
    • Measures such as ensuring adequate cooling and hydration, limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and preparing for potential visibility issues due to dust are recommended.

This forecast highlights the extreme weather conditions expected in Kuwait over the weekend, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to mitigate risks associated with such intense heat and dusty winds.

 
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Kuwait's Gold Fraud Investigation reveals shocking facts.

 
 
 

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry in Kuwait has announced plans to form a joint committee dedicated to monitoring and inspecting gold markets and workshops throughout the country. This decision comes in response to numerous complaints regarding commercial fraud within the gold sector, particularly related to weight discrepancies and the fraudulent mixing of copper with gold.

Committee Formation and Objectives

The newly proposed committee is expected to operate for a two-month period. During this time, it will conduct extensive inspection tours based on the complaints received. The primary objective is to ensure compliance within gold workshops and uphold standards to maintain market stability.

Recent Inspections and Citations

In addition to the upcoming committee inspections, teams from the Jahra and Farwaniya governorates have recently organized inspection tours at the fruits and vegetables markets in the Sulaibiya area. These inspections resulted in five citations for various violations, and the violators have been referred to commercial prosecution for further action.

Ensuring Compliance and Market Stability

The formation of this committee signifies the government's commitment to addressing commercial fraud in the gold industry. By enforcing strict standards and conducting regular inspections, the Ministry aims to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of the gold market in Kuwait.

 
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The death toll from the Farwaniya apartment fire has reached five

 
 
 

The incident described involves a tragic fire in Farwaniya, where the expatriate's apartment caught fire and resulted in the death of five members of a Syrian family due to suffocation from smoke inhalation. Here's a breakdown of the situation:

  1. Fire Origin: The fire originated in the expatriate's apartment located in Farwaniya.
  2. Consequences: Smoke from the fire spread to a neighboring apartment where a Syrian family resided. Unfortunately, this resulted in the deaths of five members of that family due to suffocation caused by the smoke.
  3. Legal Charge: Authorities have charged the expatriate whose apartment caught fire with manslaughter. This charge indicates that they believe the expatriate's actions or negligence contributed to the deaths of the five individuals.
  4. Survival of the Expatriate: Despite the fire in his apartment, the expatriate survived the incident.

Manslaughter charges typically imply that while the expatriate did not intend to cause harm, their actions or failure to act in a certain way led to the loss of life. The legal process will now proceed to determine the exact circumstances and responsibility in this tragic event.

 
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New Guidelines for Expats Kuwait Sees An Increase In Visit Visas

 
 
 

The recent changes in Kuwait's visa issuance policies have led to a notable increase in the entry of visitors from various nationalities over the past four months. Here are the key points based on the information provided:

  1. Increase in Visit Visas: Kuwait has streamlined procedures for submitting visit requests, resulting in an average issuance of 8,700 visit visas per week across the six governorates. These visas are categorized into family visits, tourism, and business visits.
  2. Breakdown of Weekly Visas: Brigadier Mazid Al-Mutairi detailed that approximately 2,000 business visit visas, 2,900 family visit visas, and 3,800 tourist visit visas are issued on average per week.
  3. Government Directive: The decision to open all types of visit visas was directed by Sheikh Fahd Al-Yousef, emphasizing inclusivity for all nationalities under specific regulations that require strict adherence to Kuwaiti laws by both sponsors and visitors.
  4. Compliance and Enforcement: There is a high level of compliance observed among visa holders regarding the duration of their visits, with minimal violations reported. Measures include notifications via the "Sahel" application and SMS to sponsors in case of violations, with escalating penalties for sponsors who do not rectify the situation.
  5. Efficiency in Visa Processing: Visit visas are processed efficiently, typically within 15 to 30 minutes if all conditions are met. Decentralization of application processing is promoted to simplify procedures for sponsors seeking visas.
  6. Top Nationalities Visiting Kuwait: The top seven nationalities entering Kuwait include Americans, British, Turks, Jordanians, Egyptians, Indians, and Syrians, indicating a diverse range of visitors benefiting from the new visa policies.
  7. Enforcement Measures: Strict measures are enforced on sponsors and visitors who violate visa regulations, ranging from warnings to potential bans on receiving sponsorships and, in severe cases, legal penalties including arrest.

In conclusion, Kuwait's approach to visa issuance reflects a balance between openness to visitors and robust enforcement of regulations to ensure compliance and security. The streamlined processes and clear enforcement measures aim to maintain order while facilitating visits for various purposes, contributing to Kuwait's broader goals of economic and cultural engagement.

 
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PACI Cancelled 322 Residential Addresses; Update Or Pay Fines

 
 
 

The Public Authority for Civil Information (PACI) has recently announced the cancellation of residential addresses for 322 individuals in Kuwait. This decision has been prompted either by the declaration of the residence owner or due to the demolition of the building where they resided. 

According to a statement published in "Kuwait Alyoum," PACI has outlined specific steps for those affected by this decision. Individuals who have had their residential addresses cancelled must visit the Authority within 30 days from the date of publication of the announcement. During this visit, they are required to register their new addresses and provide all necessary supporting documents.

It's crucial for the affected individuals to adhere to this timeline and procedure to avoid penalties under Article 33 of Law No. 32 of 1982. This article stipulates that failure to update residential information within the specified timeframe may result in fines of up to 100 Kuwaiti dinars per person.

Therefore, those impacted should act promptly to comply with PACI's requirements and ensure their residential status is accurately updated to avoid any legal consequences.

 
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Domestic Visa Transfer To Work Visa From 14th July

 
 
 

Minister, Minister of Defense, and Minister of Interior, outlines important regulations regarding the transfer of domestic workers to the private sector. Here are the key points based on your description:

  1. Transfer Period: The transfer from a domestic visa to a work visa in the private sector will be allowed from the 14th of July until the 12th of September.
  2. Approval Requirement: To transfer, the domestic worker must have approval from the current employer (sponsor) with whom they are registered.
  3. Duration Requirement: The worker must have completed at least one year with their current sponsor before they are eligible to transfer.
  4. Financial Fee: A fee of 50 dinars is required for the transfer process.

These regulations are aimed at facilitating the movement of domestic workers into other sectors of employment, potentially offering them greater opportunities outside of domestic service.

 
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The Ministry of Health deploys mobile generators to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services

 
 
 

The Ministry of Health in Kuwait has launched a new initiative aimed at enhancing the resilience of healthcare facilities across the country by introducing mobile electric generators for emergency use. Here are the key points from the initiative as per the Ministry's statement:

Purpose: The initiative is focused on strengthening the preparedness of healthcare facilities to handle electricity disruptions during emergencies.

Uninterrupted Health Services: The mobile electric generators are intended to ensure continuous provision of health services even in the event of power outages. This is crucial for maintaining care and treatment for patients who rely on medical facilities.

Strategic Distribution: The generators will be strategically distributed to healthcare facilities nationwide. This distribution plan ensures that each facility has access to backup power, enhancing their capability to operate effectively during emergencies.

Swift Deployment: The generators are designed for quick deployment as needed during emergencies. This rapid response capability is essential for providing timely backup power to healthcare facilities facing electricity disruptions.

Emergency Preparedness: By implementing this initiative, the Ministry aims to improve overall emergency preparedness within the healthcare sector. It demonstrates proactive measures to safeguard public health infrastructure and services.

In summary, Kuwait's Ministry of Health's initiative to introduce mobile electric generators for healthcare facilities underscores a commitment to ensuring continuous and uninterrupted health services, particularly during critical situations involving electricity disruptions.

 
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MEW resolves the power outage crisis and urges continued energy conservation

 
 
 

In dual announcements, the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy assured consumers that the recent crisis of power loads and scheduled outages had been resolved. However, the ministry also emphasized the need for continued energy conservation, particularly in the upcoming months, and stressed the importance of year-round rationalization efforts.

Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Customer Services Eng. Falah Al-Mutairi reassured citizens and residents that the programmed power outage crisis had been overcome. “We have resolved the crisis, thank God, and things are very good,” he stated. Nonetheless, Al-Mutairi highlighted the critical role of community cooperation in rationalizing electricity and water consumption, urging public participation in this vital initiative.

Al-Mutairi detailed the Ministry’s efforts to promote energy conservation, including the launch of the “Incentive” program in 2021, which rewards customers who reduce their consumption. He explained that customers saving less than 20 percent receive double the amount saved as a credit, while those saving 20 percent or more benefit from a 40 percent discount on their electricity bill. Additionally, customers who cut their water consumption by 25 percent or more receive a 50 percent discount on their water bill.

Major General (Retired) Faisal Al-Jazzaf, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Retired Officers Association, underscored the national importance of rationalizing electricity and water consumption. He emphasized the citizen’s role in supporting Kuwait’s interests by reducing energy loads and preventing water wastage, particularly by domestic workers during car washing.

Al-Mutairi noted a strong public response to the “Incentive” program, revealing that financial rewards amounting to 121,000 dinars were deposited into participants’ accounts last February. This demonstrates the community’s commitment to energy conservation and the ministry’s ongoing efforts to incentivize responsible consumption.

 
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Municipality Denies Indian School's Request for Relocation

 
 
 

The Environmental Affairs Committee of the Kuwait Municipal Council, chaired by Alia Al-Farsi, is scheduled to convene its second meeting for the third round to address several key issues. These include:

Proposals by Architect Sherifa Al-Shalfan:

Two proposals aimed at preserving the cleanliness of the marine environment.

A project focusing on aerobic composting.

Letter from the Health Ministry:

Pertaining to the sanitary control of landfills, emphasizing health and environmental concerns.

Letter from Kuwait Green Wall Society:

Detailing collaborative efforts with the Municipal Council, likely related to environmental conservation or urban greening initiatives.

Response from the executive branch (Kuwait Municipality):

Specifically addressing inquiries raised by Alia Al-Farsi regarding the handling of municipal solid waste and construction waste. This response is crucial for understanding the Municipality's policies and practices in waste management.

Approval of Previous Minutes:

The committee will review and approve the minutes of its previous workshop held on September 21, 2023, during the second round of meetings.

In addition to these environmental matters, the Municipality has communicated its decision to the council regarding the Indian Public School's request to relocate its headquarters within Salmiya. The request, which sought a move from Block 12, Plot 11 to Block 10, Plot 28, has been denied due to non-compliance with building regulations. The technical opinion provided by Saud Al-Dabbous, the Director General of the Municipality, clarified that Plot 28 is designated for investment housing and therefore unsuitable for the school's intended use. Plot 28 measures 2,090 square meters and is situated in Block 10, Salmiya.

These developments underscore the Municipality's commitment to regulatory compliance and orderly urban development, alongside its proactive engagement in environmental stewardship as discussed in the upcoming committee meeting.

 
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IFL Kuwait