
Official data revealed that government agencies plan to complete approximately 23 development projects this year, with a total estimated cost of around 616.2 million dinars. As of the end of last month, spending on development projects for the fiscal year 2024/2025 reached about 265 million dinars, representing a spending rate of 23%.
The responsibility for completing these projects is distributed among various government agencies, each playing a key role in overseeing the preparation and implementation processes. These projects encompass both construction and development, with the majority focused on infrastructure development. Some of the most prominent projects include:
- A strategic study project on the privatization of the main workshops of the Ministry of Electricity and Water. This project focuses on initiating the privatization process for the Ministry’s main workshops, aiming to enhance the productivity of the private sector in the country and generate national income independent of oil. It will also include a detailed roadmap for the privatization process and outline strategies to improve the operational efficiency of the main workshops.
- The Capital Market System Development Program, which involves creating infrastructure entities like the Central Counterparty (CCP) and upgrading the operations of existing entities to meet the highest international standards and practices. The program aims to diversify the investor base by attracting foreign and institutional investors. It also includes initiatives designed to enhance the capital markets and expand and develop their investment tools.
- Al-Khiran Station Project, Phase I, located in the Al-Khiran area, next to the southern border of the existing Al-Zour South Station site, approximately 100 km south of Kuwait City. The project will be implemented using the design, build, finance, operate, and transfer (DBFOT) system for an electrical power generation station with a production capacity of 1,800 megawatts, designed to operate under the weather conditions of Kuwait. It will utilize combined cycle technology and include water desalination with a production capacity of 33 imperial gallons.
- Al-Zour North Power Plant Project, Phase II and III, aims to meet the country’s growing demand for electrical energy, strengthen the existing network, and provide the necessary infrastructure for other state projects outlined in the development plan. The project will help cover the nation’s energy and water needs while encouraging private sector participation. It seeks to leverage the expertise of the private sector in construction and development to reduce costs, accelerate completion, and optimize the utilization of the country’s natural resources.
- The Home Education Project aims to support student talent and creativity by monitoring the development of students’ abilities and talents, achieving tangible field results, and enhancing academic performance. It seeks to align academic achievements with international and global standards approved for each educational category.
- Establishing a knowledge entity specialized in the financial markets sector, with the goal of collaborating with leading international educational and professional bodies in financial market development. The entity aims to transfer this expertise to market participants and professionals, providing resources to qualify and train national cadres. This initiative will enhance their ability to engage with foreign investment entities, attracting them to invest in Kuwait’s financial markets. Additionally, the project seeks to strengthen the competitive environment for those working in financial markets, enabling them to develop their skills and abilities, which will directly improve the efficiency of the country’s financial markets.
- The Elderly Care Unit in Seville, which aims to provide health, social, and recreational services to the elderly in a manner that is both accessible and respectful. The project ensures that these services are offered in convenient locations for easy access, with a capacity to serve approximately 700 cases.
- The Smart Meter System aims to replace the current meters with an advanced digital system by installing 600,000 smart electricity meters and 200,000 smart water meters across Kuwait. These meters will be read and operated electronically via the Ministry’s website. The system is designed to achieve several objectives, including remote electronic reading and operation, instant consumption data collection, and resolving issues related to debt accumulation. Additionally, it will provide accurate information on consumption patterns, enabling better planning and efficient management of the Ministry’s resources for electricity and water demand.
- The Broadcasting and Digital Archiving Network aims to enhance the communications infrastructure between the Media Complex, external stations, Ministry of Information buildings, and other key state-affiliated buildings. The project seeks to keep pace with technological advancements by utilizing state-of-the-art transmission technology for transmitting audio and video signals.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) aims to reduce and limit encroachments on state property while automatically archiving maps and related documents. The system also seeks to enhance the provision of interactive services to citizens through the internet, promoting efficiency and accessibility.
Fixed Telecommunications Network Development
The projects also include the development of the fixed communications network, aiming to provide record-speed connectivity, initially reaching 10 gigabytes per second. The plan includes deploying a fiber optic network to cover at least 90% of homes in Kuwait by 2028, along with offering job and training opportunities for Kuwaiti citizens in the information and communications technology sector.
Receiving Giant Aircraft A380
The government aims to develop the eastern runway of the international airport, extending and upgrading it to accommodate larger aircraft, including the A380. The project will incorporate the latest air navigation technologies and meet international specifications.
Additionally, a new air traffic control tower will be built to serve the third and middle runways, along with enhancements to the airport infrastructure. The expansion will also increase the capacity for new-generation aircraft, supporting the new passenger terminal.
Source: Al Qabas