Kuwait underscores vital role of non-profit sector in Gulf development

RIYADH: Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs Dr Khaled Al-Ajmi affirmed that the non-profit sector has become a key driver of comprehensive development, given its dynamic human and societal resources and its capacity to foster community-based initiatives that bolster social stability and improve quality of life. Speaking during a panel session at the Gulf Non-Profit Sector Forum, held as part of the third International ENA Exhibition in Riyadh, Dr Al-Ajmi underscored the importance of forging strategic partnerships between the non-profit, public, and private sectors.

“We believe in an integrated development vision that promotes sustainability and empowers all components of society,” he said. Highlighting the strategic significance of investing in the non-profit sector, Dr Al-Ajmi stated, “Safe investment in this sector is not a luxury, but a national necessity and a strategic choice adopted by advanced nations to maintain social balance, enhance productivity, and deepen community engagement.”

Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs, Dr Khaled Al-Ajmi

Gulf Forum for the Non-Profit Sector. – KUNA photos

He pointed to the successful Gulf experiences presented at the forum as practical models, offering a clear roadmap for institutional development and sectoral integration. “These are not mere theoretical exercises but actionable frameworks that can elevate performance across entities and contribute to a sustainable development model rooted in shared expertise,” he said. Dr Al-Ajmi concluded by extending his appreciation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its warm hospitality and excellent organization of the forum. He also lauded the efforts of the Executive Office of the GCC Ministers of Labor and Social Affairs, as well as the GCC General Secretariat, for their effective coordination of the forum’s dialogue sessions.

The session also featured a presentation by Director of the Civil Society Associations Department at the Ministry of Social Affairs, Iman Al-Enezi, who outlined Kuwait’s achievements in promoting financial sustainability among non-profit organizations. She said Kuwait has adopted a comprehensive institutional framework rooted in transparency, governance, and empowerment, enabling civil and charitable associations to diversify their income sources through legislative, financial, and regulatory reforms.

“We now have pioneering national models of community leadership that can be leveraged at the Gulf and Arab levels,” Al-Enezi said. She explained that Kuwaiti non-profit organizations rely on a mix of government funding, private sector support, individual donations, and charitable endowments—strengthening their independence and operational flexibility.

Al-Enezi praised the Gulf Forum as an effective platform for exchanging experiences and aligning development goals, reaffirming Kuwait’s firm commitment to supporting joint Gulf action and enhancing civil society performance. The Kuwaiti delegation to the forum was led by Dr Khaled Al-Ajmi and included Iman Al-Enezi and Director of the Charitable Organizations Department, Abdulaziz Al-Ajmi. The forum is part of the implementation of recommendations from the 10th meeting of GCC Ministers of Social Affairs and reflects ongoing efforts to consolidate sustainable community partnerships and reinforce the role of non-profit institutions in advancing the development agenda of GCC states. — KUNA