Minister of Social Affairs: "Ta'awi" aims to support and empower the recovered to regain their active role in society

Sultan Al-Abdan: Dr. Amthal Al-Huwail, Minister of Social Affairs, Labor, and Social Development, affirmed that the national “Tawaafi” initiative represents one of the national efforts aimed at supporting and empowering individuals in recovery to reclaim their active role in society. This is achieved by providing a comprehensive system of care, rehabilitation, and empowerment, thereby enhancing opportunities for integration, stability, and productivity.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Al-Huwail stated that “Tawaafi” is implemented by the Human Building Association for Social Development under the auspices of the Ministry of Social Affairs, in partnership with the United Nations and with support from the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, alongside participation from various government and international entities. This initiative aligns with national efforts to empower and support individuals in recovery.

She added that the initiative embodies Kuwait’s belief that true investment begins with human capital, and that recovery is only complete through the provision of integrated services encompassing health, psychological, and social care, alongside rehabilitation, training, and economic empowerment programs. These measures enable individuals in recovery to return to society as productive and active members.

Al-Huwail clarified that the initiative aligns with the targets of “Kuwait Vision 2035” and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by strengthening effective partnerships, enhancing social protection, improving quality of life, and enabling individuals to participate positively in societal development.

She noted that the launch of “Tawaafi” complements the ongoing partnership with the United Nations and reflects a shift toward building an integrated national model in care, rehabilitation, and reintegration, aiming to achieve sustainable impact and meet the needs of the target groups.

Al-Huwail emphasized the importance of complementary roles among government entities, international organizations, the private sector, and civil society institutions. She stressed that social responsibility is a shared duty and that cooperation is the fundamental pillar for achieving sustainable development and enhancing social cohesion.

She reaffirmed that the Ministry of Social Affairs believes every person deserves a new opportunity, and that empowering, supporting, and reintegrating individuals in recovery into society is a national and humanitarian responsibility that contributes to building a more stable and cohesive community, offering hope to all seeking a fresh start.

For his part, Dr. Asad Hafeez, Representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) in Kuwait, stated that substance use disorders constitute a public health issue requiring a comprehensive response that extends beyond prevention and treatment to include rehabilitation, recovery, and social reintegration. He pointed out that true recovery involves empowering individuals to rebuild their lives, regain their independence, and participate actively in their families and communities.

Hafeez said the initiative represents an important model for supporting individuals in recovery by helping them acquire new skills and creating employment opportunities, thereby providing a suitable environment for achieving sustainable recovery and genuine social integration.

He explained that the WHO, through its regional initiative to accelerate public health action on substance use, works with member states to strengthen evidence-based approaches across all stages of care, from prevention and treatment to rehabilitation and recovery, while enhancing collaboration between the health sector, social services, the criminal justice sector, and civil society organizations.

For her part, Ghada Al-Tajer, Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Resident Coordinator in Kuwait, affirmed that the “Tawaafi” initiative represents a model of strategic partnership between the Ministry of Social Affairs, Labor, and Social Development and the United Nations, supported by the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development and implemented by the Human Building Association for Social Development. This reflects the integration of national and international efforts to serve humanity and promote sustainable development.

In a statement to the press, Al-Tajer noted that Kuwait continues to consolidate its status as a model in supporting humanitarian and social work. She highlighted that cooperation among government entities, international organizations, civil society institutions, and the private sector forms a fundamental pillar for achieving social justice and sustainable development.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwail, Minister of Social Affairs, Labor, and Social Development, honored Sheikh Sheikha Al-Abdullah for her continuous efforts in caring for and supporting persons with disabilities and her ongoing initiatives to facilitate their integration into society.

Sheikh Sheikha Al-Abdullah expressed her appreciation and gratitude to everyone who contributed to this recognition, stating that it is a source of pride and reflects values of loyalty and appreciation for all who strive to serve society and work for the benefit of humanity. She regarded the honor as a greater responsibility to continue giving, reaffirming her belief that true achievements are realized through collective efforts and teamwork.