Minister of Awqaf: Giving is a Core Feature of Kuwaiti Identity

On Monday, Dr. Mohammed Al-Wasmi, Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, inaugurated the 28th Endowment Forum under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The forum, organized by the General Secretariat of Awqaf, carries the slogan “An Endowment that Grows… A Kuwait that Rises.”

In his opening speech, the Minister expressed his honor in representing His Highness the Amir, conveying his greetings and sincere wishes for the forum’s success in serving Kuwait and its people. He emphasized that the forum should be a renewed national platform enriching the endowment’s mission and magnifying its impact in service to humanity.

Giving as Part of Kuwaiti Identity

Al-Wasmi stated that Kuwaitis have been accustomed to extending help since the nation’s inception, making generosity a defining trait of Kuwaiti identity. He described the forum as a solid platform for evaluating the progress of endowment work, exploring future prospects, and reinforcing its role as a pillar of sustainable development and investment in people.

Vision Behind the Forum’s Motto

The Minister explained that the motto “An Endowment that Grows… A Kuwait that Rises” reflects a vision for action. He noted that endowments grow when managed efficiently, safeguarded faithfully, and directed toward national priorities and real needs. Kuwait rises through the efforts of its citizens, the leadership of its institutions, and the consolidation of its humanitarian and charitable model, which has made Kuwait a shining beacon regionally and internationally.

Development of Endowment Work

Al-Wasmi affirmed that the General Secretariat of Awqaf continues to develop the endowment system in line with Kuwait’s vision, fulfilling the intentions of donors, and maximizing the social impact of endowments. He stressed that Kuwaiti endowments remain worthy of trust and reputation, supported by wise leadership and effective partnerships with state institutions and civil society.

Statement from the Acting Secretary-General

Engineer Janan Al-Zamel, Acting Secretary-General of the General Secretariat of Awqaf, said the forum’s title reflects the Secretariat’s philosophy of growth through governance, transparency, impact measurement, and directing endowment spending toward priorities.

She added that the forum aims to highlight the renewed strength of endowments in Kuwaiti society as an effective tool engaging with contemporary issues, offering solutions for family stability, opening empowerment opportunities for youth, and enhancing quality of life—transforming the spirit of giving into tangible impact.

Practical Applications and Projects

Al-Zamel explained that the forum presents practical models of renewal through programs, exhibitions, and real-life initiatives. Among them is the “Sada” project, which serves children with hearing impairments and cochlear implants, delivering clear social value. Another is the “Reconciliation” project, which promotes peace within households and protects the social fabric from fragmentation.

She stressed the Secretariat’s firm commitment to developing endowment work, safeguarding donors’ trusts, and maximizing the impact of their contributions in line with the guidance of Kuwait’s leadership and the priorities of the state.