Kuwait launches four-pronged strategy to boost project efficiency

• The directives stressed the importance of obtaining approvals from regulatory authorities for the implementation of projects included in the development plan and utilizing the appropriations allocated to them in the draft budget.

To enhance the efficiency of development project implementation and improve government performance in this area in the coming period, the relevant authorities have been directed to adopt a four-pronged approach. This strategy focuses on strengthening the development implementation process, tightening control over public funds, enforcing contractual penalties as per established agreements, and enhancing the skills of employees in financial departments to boost their effectiveness, according to Al Rai newspaper.

In this regard, it was emphasized that government agencies and institutions, especially those with projects included in the development plan, must adhere to the proper preparation of the conditions and specifications required for development projects within a sufficient timeframe. This includes ensuring that all necessary requirements are met, procedures for project initiation are completed, contracts are signed, and negligent entities are held accountable.

Development plan

The directives stressed the importance of obtaining approvals from regulatory authorities for the implementation of projects included in the development plan and utilizing the appropriations allocated to them in the draft budget.

Financial disbursement should be supported by original documents verifying the completion of work. It is crucial to address any shortcomings in the follow-up and management of projects, committing to complete them according to the approved timeline. This includes setting a timetable for project implementation before their inclusion in the budget to ensure the appropriations reflect the actual needs for execution.

The sources also highlighted the need to activate the role of supervisory bodies within government agencies tasked with verifying the integrity of the efforts to implement the work outlined in their contracts. This includes ensuring the completion of initial receipt notes and necessary maintenance during the contractual maintenance period while taking appropriate measures with the implementing companies as per the terms of the contract.

The sources stated that efforts will be directed toward enhancing the efficiency of auditors working in the field of financial affairs within government agencies, particularly those involved in development projects. This will be achieved by providing training programs to clarify the rules and laws that must be followed, ensuring increased control over public funds.

Additionally, the sources indicated that government entities with overdue financial entitlements must coordinate with the relevant authorities, including the Ministries of Commerce and Industry, Justice, Finance, and Interior, to follow up on the implementation of final judicial rulings issued in their favor and to collect the amounts due. They will also work to recover any funds that have been disbursed unjustly.

Regarding entities with investment contracts for their land, the sources mentioned that they will need to tighten control over these contracts and adhere to the utilized commercial spaces according to the terms of the contract and its intended purpose, while also focusing on revenue development.

Development targets

The sources stated that to ensure the acceleration of work in line with development targets, multiple parties have been directed to take necessary measures to expedite the completion of projects included in the development plan. Among these entities is the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters, particularly concerning the completion of the project to rehabilitate the buildings of the National Museum of Kuwait. This commitment must focus on achieving the desired objectives of the financial appropriations in compliance with the budget while adhering to contractual terms and requiring contractors to submit receipt and delivery statements for all issues.

The sources also mentioned that, in parallel with the emphasis on accelerating the implementation of development projects, it is recommended to tighten control over excavation and archaeological survey operations. Companies will be obliged to provide specialized labor for this work, with fines applied in accordance with the stipulated conditions.