Al-Hawila launches the "Recovery" initiative: Every person deserves a new chance
- Empowering and reintegrating recovered individuals into society is a national and humanitarian responsibility.
- The integration of roles among government entities, international organizations, and civil society is a cornerstone of development.
- Asad Hafeez: Substance use disorders are a public health issue.
- Ghada Al-Tajer: Kuwait continues to consolidate its position in supporting humanitarian and social action.
From treatment to the restoration of life, the “Tawaafi” initiative opens a new pathway for recovered individuals, based on care, rehabilitation, and empowerment, granting them the opportunity to return to society as active and productive members, within a national and international partnership aimed at building a sustainable model for reintegration.
Speaking at the launch of the initiative yesterday, Thursday, at the UN House in Mishref, Al-Hawila stated that “Tawaafi” 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 recovered individuals to return to society as productive and active citizens.
Al-Hawila noted that the launch of “Tawaafi” complements the ongoing partnership with the United Nations and reflects a strategic direction toward building an integrated national model in the fields of care, rehabilitation, and reintegration, thereby achieving sustainable impact and meeting the needs of target groups.
She reaffirmed the Ministry of Social Affairs’ conviction that every individual deserves a new opportunity, emphasizing that empowering, supporting, and reintegrating recovered persons into society constitutes a national and humanitarian responsibility that contributes to building a more stable and cohesive community, while offering hope to all seeking a fresh start.
For his part, the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Kuwait, Dr. Asad Hafeez, affirmed that substance use disorders represent a public health issue requiring a comprehensive response spanning prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, recovery, and social reintegration. He pointed out that true recovery enables individuals to rebuild their lives, regain their independence, and participate actively in their families and communities.
He clarified that the WHO works with member states to strengthen evidence-based approaches across all stages of care and to enhance collaboration between the health sector, social services, criminal justice systems, and civil society organizations.
For her part, the UN Resident Coordinator and Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Kuwait, Ghada Al-Tajer, affirmed that the “Tawaafi” initiative represents a model of strategic partnership. She stressed that Kuwait continues to consolidate its standing as a benchmark in supporting humanitarian and social action, noting 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.
She added that “Tawaafi” represents a strategic step toward building a more cohesive and resilient society capable of facing challenges, aligning with the objectives of Kuwait Vision 2035 and the Sustainable Development Goals. She highlighted that the initiative provides an integrated system of care, psychological and social support, and educational assistance for recovered individuals, enhancing their reintegration into society.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Minister of Social Affairs Amthal Al-Hawila honored Sheikh Sheikha Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah for her continuous efforts in caring for and supporting persons with disabilities, as well as her ongoing initiatives to facilitate their integration into society.
Speaking on the sidelines of the ceremony honoring her, Al-Abdullah expressed her delight, saying, “I am pleased to extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation to everyone who contributed to this honor, which I deeply cherish. It is a source of pride and reflects the values of loyalty and appreciation for all who strive to serve society and work for the betterment of humanity. I regard this recognition as a greater responsibility that drives me to continue giving, and reinforces my belief that true achievements are realized through collective efforts and teamwork.”
She added, “I also extend my heartfelt thanks to the organizing body, the organizers of this distinguished event, and all attendees for their kind sentiments. I pray to God to grant us all the success to serve our beloved homeland, Kuwait, and to perpetuate its blessings of security, stability, and prosperity under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir of Kuwait and His Highness the Crown Prince. May He grant everyone success in what benefits the nation and its citizens.”
Muthal Al-Hawila expressed her deepest appreciation to the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development, the United Nations and its specialized agencies, the Human Building Association for Social Development, and all government and private entities that contributed to preparing and implementing the initiative, commending their efforts in supporting collaborative work aimed at serving humanity.
