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Al-Otaibi: Kuwait...the homeland of humanity and a pioneer in global charitable work.

On these blessed days, we commemorate a dear and precious memory: September 9, 2014, when the United Nations, through its then Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, honored His Highness the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God have mercy on him, as a "Leader of Humanitarian Action" and designated Kuwait as a "Center of Humanitarian Action." It was a remarkable historic moment that remains a beacon for generations and proof that giving, when coupled with values ​​and principles, transforms into a solid identity and an eternal medal upon the chest of nations.
Kuwait... An Enduring Humanitarian Legacy
Saad Marzouq Al-Otaibi, Chairman of the Union of Charitable Societies and Foundations and CEO of Namaa Charity, said: "Since its beginnings, Kuwait has not just been a small country on the world map, but rather a great country in its humanity. For decades, the people of Kuwait have been accustomed to extending a helping hand to those in need, and the caravans of goodness have extended from this good land to various parts of the world, from Asia to Africa, from Palestine to Bosnia, from Yemen to Sudan. What distinguishes this generosity is that it was not solely linked to oil wealth, but was rooted in the values ​​of Kuwaiti society, rooted in the days of pearl diving and arduous travel, where social solidarity was the secret to survival.
The Late Emir... A Leader with a Humanitarian Heart
Al-Otaibi added that the United Nations' selection of the late Emir, Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God have mercy on him, as a Humanitarian Leader was not a protocol decision or a symbolic honor, but rather an international testament to his accumulated humanitarian stances. The world knew His Highness as a leader of peace, a voice for the weak, a mediator in conflicts, and a promoter of the culture of mercy. His Highness, may God have mercy on him, believed that Kuwait's strength was not measured by its geographical area, but rather by the extent of its giving and contributions to supporting the oppressed and assisting the afflicted. A Journey of Giving Beyond Borders
Al-Otaibi said: "Under His Highness's leadership, Kuwait has hosted numerous international donor conferences to support the Syrian people, rebuild Iraq, and assist the Palestinian people, in addition to its urgent initiatives to confront natural disasters in Asia and Africa. All of this has made the world view Kuwait as a model state that practices "diplomacy of giving," investing its resources in alleviating human suffering, regardless of race, religion, or color.

Associations and Charitable Societies: Partners in the Journey
Al-Otaibi emphasized that the Union of Charitable Societies and Charitable Societies believes that this international honor did not come out of nowhere, but rather is the product of an integrated system of charitable work in Kuwait. Charitable societies and endowments have contributed to building this edifice through development and relief projects spanning dozens of countries. Today, we are faced with a great legacy that we must preserve and pass on to future generations by strengthening institutional work and developing our tools to keep pace with modern challenges."
Present Challenges and Future Responsibilities
Al-Otaibi explained that it is no secret that the world is experiencing unprecedented humanitarian crises, from wars to natural disasters, and from the displacement of people to extreme poverty. Despite this, Kuwait remains steadfast in its role, always affirming that it will not hesitate to champion humanitarian causes. However, this role today requires enhanced transparency, expanded international partnerships, and the use of modern technology to ensure that aid arrives more quickly and efficiently.
Kuwaiti Giving in Numbers
Al-Otaibi pointed out that international reports indicate that Kuwait, despite its small size, has achieved advanced positions globally in the volume of aid relative to the gross domestic product. In recent years, Kuwait has provided hundreds of millions of dollars to support United Nations humanitarian programs, in addition to its ongoing initiatives in the fields of health, education, and shelter. These numbers are not just dry statistics, but living evidence that "humanity" is not a slogan we raise, but a daily practice we live. Islamic Values ​​and National Identity
Al-Otaibi explained that the roots of Kuwaiti charitable work are derived from the teachings of Islam, which encourage charity, endowments, and benevolence. These values ​​have become a national identity in Kuwait, making giving part of our common culture. Therefore, the anniversary of September 9 is not only an occasion for celebration, but also an invitation to recall these values ​​and renew our pledge to continue on the same path.
The Union Affirms the Continuity of the Mission
Al-Otaibi added that, on this anniversary, the Union of Charitable Societies and Endowments renews its commitment to following in the footsteps of the late Amir, may God have mercy on him, and the directives of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God protect him, in strengthening Kuwait's position as a beacon of charitable work. He affirms that charitable societies and endowments will remain an effective arm in implementing relief and development projects, both inside and outside Kuwait, armed with a spirit of transparency, a vision of sustainability, and the tools of the digital age. A badge of honor for every Kuwaiti. Al-Otaibi concluded his statement by saying: "The designation of Kuwait as a 'Center for Humanitarian Action' is a badge of honor that does not belong to the leadership alone, but extends to every citizen, every donor and philanthropist, and every worker in charitable organizations. It is a testament to the world that this geographically small nation is great in its humanity, remaining in the memory of nations as a symbol of goodness and giving. As we commemorate this anniversary, we send a message to future generations: This great legacy is a trust upon your necks. Kuwait is known not only for its wealth, but also for its humanity. Let this identity be your beacon, and may the caravans of Kuwaiti goodness continue, uninterrupted and undiminished, but rather ever brighter and wider."