Kuwait achieves 100 percent completion in key sustainable development goals: Report

A recent report indicates that Kuwait has achieved significant completion rates across several Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicators. Data released by the Gulf Cooperation Council Statistical Center (GCC-Stat) shows that Kuwait has achieved a 100% completion rate in key areas, including the proportion of births attended by qualified health personnel, the proportion of households with basic services, and the proportion of the population benefiting from safely managed drinking water and electricity services.

Furthermore, Kuwait has successfully achieved civil registration for all children under the age of five, fully adopted and implemented a national strategy for disaster risk reduction by local governments, and achieved a 100% treatment rate for hazardous waste. These accomplishments highlight Kuwait's strong commitment to sustainable development initiatives and environmental protection.

The center noted in a report released in conjunction with Kuwait's National Day celebrations that these indicators reaffirm Kuwait's dedication to "Kuwait Vision 2035." "Kuwait Vision 2035" aims to position Kuwait as a leading global financial and investment hub, attracting international investment and fostering economic growth. The vision emphasizes a private sector-driven economy, promoting human development, enhancing competitiveness, and improving productivity. Moreover, it aims to create a robust institutional framework, uphold national values, safeguard social identity, encourage human development, and provide the necessary infrastructure for a vibrant and advanced business environment.

According to the Gulf Cooperation Council Statistical Center, Kuwait's total government revenue accounts for 32.4% of its GDP, while labor's share in GDP is 22.9%. In 2023, Kuwait's total government expenditure was approximately $85.543 billion. The non-oil sector contributed 48.8% to GDP (at current prices), and per capita GDP reached $36,700. The country's inflation rate was 3.6%. Kuwait ranked first globally in the 2023 Information and Communication Technology Development Index and the 2023 5G Technology Leadership, third globally in the 2024 Tax Policy Index, and 11th in the 2024 Public Finance Index.

Kuwait's firm integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with "Kuwait Vision 2035" demonstrates its strong belief that sustainable development is crucial for long-term growth and prosperity for future generations. The national development plan includes 164 development projects and 30 strategic initiatives, designed to promote economic diversification and social well-being. These initiatives aim to establish a special international economic zone, enhance the capabilities of citizens and institutions, create environmentally sustainable residential areas, and support a vibrant private sector while promoting the privatization of the public sector. Additionally, the plan emphasizes improving public health and well-being, fostering transparent and interconnected governance, building robust infrastructure, and strengthening global engagement.

Kuwait is actively implementing five clean and sustainable energy projects, including the Shagaya Renewable Energy Complex, one of the country's largest solar projects. The third phase of this project is expected to be completed in 2025, significantly boosting the nation's renewable energy capacity. In the education sector, Kuwait has opened Abdullah Al-Salem University, which plays a crucial role in cultivating a skilled workforce to enrich the labor market. The university houses three research centers, including the Center for Cybersecurity and Digital Transformation, the Center for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, and the Center for Energy, Resources, and Sustainability.

Kuwait is currently constructing five sustainable health cities, which will include 89,000 residential units, improving the quality of life for its citizens. One of the country's ambitious infrastructure projects is the Doha Seawater Desalination Plant, designed to produce 60 million gallons of fresh water daily using groundwater treatment. Another significant project is the Al-Wafra power plant, an essential component of the Gulf Cooperation Council's electricity interconnection system, which will facilitate electricity exports beyond the GCC region, starting with southern Iraq, at an estimated cost of $270 million. These large-scale projects highlight Kuwait's unwavering commitment to economic diversification, sustainability, and technological advancement, laying the groundwork for a more prosperous future.