KUWAIT: Kuwait’s Ministry of Social Affairs announced Thursday that the third national campaign to settle the debts of insolvent Kuwaiti citizens (“gharameen”) has so far raised over KD 15 million, exceeding the first two campaigns. The funds will be used to pay off the debts of more than 9,119 registered cases currently under review by specialized committees.

“This reflects strong public engagement and a spirit of social solidarity,” said the ministry in a statement. “The campaign is not just a charitable effort but a reflection of Kuwait’s humanitarian values and its commitment to supporting struggling citizens with dignity and justice.”

The campaign, launched in March following directives from Kuwait’s political leadership to strengthen social solidarity and support financially distressed citizens, is carried out through six dedicated legal and technical committees. These committees include representatives from the Ministries of Social Affairs, Interior, Justice, and Islamic Affairs, along with the Zakat House and the General Secretariat of Awqaf. “Organizers have emphasized the importance of transparency and have made the campaign more accessible by responding to inquiries through the Sahel app,” said the ministry.

According to the ministry, the KD 15 million collected will be handed over to the General Department of Enforcement at the Ministry of Justice. The department will then settle eligible debts according to established criteria designed to ensure transparency, fairness, and the humanitarian objectives of the campaign. The committees began reviewing cases about a month ago, working under a strict protocol that ensures each case is examined individually to confirm eligibility, prevent duplication, and avoid exploitation. Priority is given to indebted Kuwaiti citizens who are currently detained in correctional facilities or have active enforcement files. Those who benefited from previous campaigns in 2023 and 2024 are excluded from this round to broaden the campaign’s reach and assist the most in-need individuals.

In a statement published in March, the ministry emphasized that registration for the campaign is conducted exclusively through the Central Aid Platform, where applicants must upload required documents in PDF format. Walk-in applications at the ministry or partner charitable organizations are not accepted to uphold fairness and a unified digital process. The maximum debt relief amount is capped at KD 20,000 per beneficiary to maximize the number of people who can benefit. Debts arising from illegal transactions, telecom company bills, or informal lending sources are excluded, as are individuals who received support in the two previous campaigns. — Agencies

LONDON: HBR, Kuwait’s popular smashburger concept, is proud to announce the opening of its first international location in London’s bustling Victoria district. Marking a major milestone for the brand, HBR London will officially open its doors on 13th June, ready to serve Londoners their bold, crave-worthy burgers that make it a sensation at home.

With nine thriving locations across Kuwait and two food trucks, HBR is famous for top-quality, fresh ingredients, playful menu and irresistible smashburgers. Now, Londoners will have the chance to enjoy HBR’s best-selling items – ranging from juicy smashburgers to crispy chicken favorites and indulgent sides.

“Launching HBR London is a proud moment for our entire team in Kuwait,” said Aseel AlTurkait, Chief Support Services Officer at AlThiqa Food Group Company. “We’ve worked hard to craft something special back home, and we’re excited to share that with the global food scene, starting with the UK. London is a city that appreciates great burgers, and we’re confident HBR will bring something fresh to the table – bold flavors, a vibrant setting, and the energy that keeps people coming back.”

HBR London will feature a curated selection of the brand’s greatest hits. Menu highlights include:

The OG – a trending favorite featuring double-smashed patties, melted cheese, and tangy pickles

Double Trouble – a cheesy, saucy twist on the original smash

Chick Flick and Classy Chick – irresistible chicken burger options

The Shroom – a satisfying pick featuring a beef patty, loaded with mushrooms and Swiss cheese

Plus, signature sides including HBR fan-favorite curly fries, onion rings, and jalapeño bites

As an added bonus, Bascota is coming to London too and will feature exclusively on HBR’s menu! Known in Kuwait for its signature indulgent cookies topped with ice cream and the famous Lava Cookie Experience, Bascota are bringing their viral sweet creations to the UK for the very first time.

HBR London will offer seating for 28 customers in a quick-service format. An open kitchen design will add to the buzzing atmosphere, giving guests a front-row seat to the burger magic. Just like in Kuwait, the menu will also be available on Deliveroo, UberEats and Just Eat, delivering to local residents and businesses for a quick midweek lunch or weekend treat!

KUWAIT:  The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior announced on Wednesday the seizure of approximately 200 kg of meth and vitamin, valued at over KD 1.5 million (about USD 4.8 million), from an Asian suspect.

This operation was part of efforts led by First Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah to combat drug trafficking.

The General Department of Narcotics Control acted on precise information, leading to the arrest of the suspect in Al-Raqqa, where the drugs were hidden. Investigations revealed that the suspect had rented vehicles for distribution and storage, receiving instructions from abroad.

This confiscation is among the largest in Kuwait, and the Ministry is committed to continuing its campaigns against narcotics trafficking to protect society. -KUNA