Workshop aims to boost governance in charitable sector

KUWAIT: The International Islamic Charitable Organization (IICO), in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Social Affairs, organized a specialized workshop on Tuesday titled “Introduction to Compliance Management: Practical Applications” as part of its ongoing “Tamkeen” initiative. The workshop aimed to strengthen the principles of governance and institutional compliance within Kuwait’s charitable sector.

Speaking to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), IICO Deputy Director General and Head of the Tamkeen initiative Abdulrahman Al-Mutawa said the workshop reflects the organization’s commitment to promoting a culture of integrity, transparency and sustainability. He noted that IICO was the first charitable institution in Kuwait to establish an independent compliance and governance department in 2022 — demonstrating a proactive approach to institutional development.

Al-Mutawa highlighted that the organization has successfully met all criteria of the institutional evaluation set by the Ministry of Social Affairs, including those related to organizational structure, risk management, governance and internal controls. He added that IICO continues to develop systems and policies aimed at achieving excellence in institutional performance.

Participant are seen during the workshop. – KUNA photos

He clarified that the workshop is part of a strategic roadmap to protect organizational reputation, minimize risks and enhance administrative efficiency in the charitable field. He also revealed plans to launch a new training program soon, which will certify “compliance specialists” working in charitable societies in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Affairs, providing them with the expertise needed to excel in the field.

For her part, Acting Director of the Department of Charitable Societies and Endowments at the Ministry of Social Affairs Iman Al-Enezi said the workshop is part of a broader strategic initiative to embed a culture of compliance and governance in charitable institutions. She noted that the Tamkeen initiative, launched in 2018, aims to qualify professionals working in the sector and adapt to ongoing administrative and technical developments.

Al-Enezi pointed out that since its inception, the initiative has conducted 46 training programs benefiting over 1,500 participants from various charitable organizations. She commended the efforts of IICO and the Tamkeen initiative, reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance institutional performance in Kuwait’s charitable and humanitarian sectors. The workshop was attended by senior officials from charitable associations and foundations, as well as representatives from the public sector, underscoring the joint efforts to prepare administrative cadres in line with international best practices. — KUNA