KFAED signs USD 5 mln grant agreement with UN to support inclusive employment program

KUWAIT, Jan 25 (KUNA) -- Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) signed a USD five million grant agreement with UN, allocated to International Labour Organization (ILO), UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), World Health Organization (WHO), and UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), to promoting inclusive employment and rehabilitation in Kuwait.
Speaking to KUNA following the signing ceremony, KFAED Acting Director General Waleed Al-Bahar said the agreement reaffirms the Fund's commitment to supporting comprehensive development initiatives that enhance human dignity. Al-Bahar noted that the program seeks to support and enhance the social and economic inclusion of persons with disabilities in Kuwait through a package of strategic interventions led by specialized international organizations, in close coordination with relevant national entities.
He added that the program focuses on improving access to technical education and entrepreneurship opportunities, as well as promoting the use of digital analytics tools and artificial intelligence to support evidence-based planning and the formulation of effective policies, contributing to the development of a more inclusive and sustainable system.
Al-Bahar also highlighted the program's role in enhancing inclusive employment opportunities, alongside supporting national efforts in the prevention of substance abuse, the development of treatment and rehabilitation services, and empowering recovered individuals to reintegrate effectively into society within a supportive and sustainable environment.
For her part, the UN Secretary-General's Representative and Resident Coordinator in Kuwait Ghada Al-Taher said the signing marks a milestone in the decades-long partnership between the UN and KFAED.
Al-Taher affirmed that the agreement is not merely project financing, but rather "a testament to confidence in multilateral action and in the United Nations' ability to bring about real and sustainable change in people's lives." She expressed pride in continuing cooperation with the Kuwait Fund, describing it as a leading development institution at both the regional and international levels, working toward a shared vision that places people at the heart of development.
Al-Taher affirmed that the initiative reflects Kuwait's firm commitment to the principles of social justice and inclusion and embodies the spirit of Kuwait Vision 2035 in building a fair and prosperous society that leaves no one behind.
The agreement was signed on behalf of the participating UN organizations by the Head of the World Health Organization Mission in Kuwait. This signing represents the 11th agreement between WHO and the Kuwait Fund, which has previously provided several grants in support of health and humanitarian programs and projects.
The program will be implemented by the aforementioned UN organizations in cooperation with the Kuwaiti government institutions and relevant public benefit associations. (end) maa.aa