On the first anniversary of the death of Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, may God have mercy on him, the people of Kuwait stand united in loyalty to a leader who etched his name in golden letters in the nation’s memory. His achievements and national and humanitarian stances will remain a testament to the wisdom of a leader, the acumen of a politician, and the compassion of a father who held Kuwait in his heart until his last moments.
A Wise Journey
Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah was born on June 25, 1937, in Kuwait City, in the neighborhood of Al-Shuyukh. He received his education in Kuwait schools, where the authentic values of leadership were instilled in him. His Highness advanced through various leadership positions, serving Kuwait from several influential and pivotal roles.
He began his career as the Governor of Hawalli, where he made a radical transformation in the region, turning it from a small village into a vibrant city full of commercial and developmental life. He then held the position of Minister of Interior, where he was known as the "spiritual father of Kuwaiti security." He restructured the ministry, introduced modern technology into the security system, and created new departments, most notably the elections department, and launched developed plans to enhance internal security and protect the borders.
In 1988, he took on the role of Minister of Defense, where he was a wise leader in developing the Kuwaiti army and was keen on signing advanced armament contracts, as well as sending Kuwaiti officers and soldiers to study and train in the world's leading military academies. After the liberation of Kuwait, he took charge of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor, dedicating his efforts to caring for the vulnerable groups in society, including widows, orphans, and the elderly, and became a champion for children and women in Kuwait.
In 1994, he became the Deputy Prime Minister of the National Guard, where he laid the foundations for the comprehensive development of the National Guard and worked on enhancing its human and technical capabilities to be a supporting force to the Kuwaiti armed forces.
In 2006, he was proclaimed Crown Prince by the National Assembly, becoming the right hand to the late Emir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad, and participated in making critical decisions that contributed to enhancing the security of Kuwait, developing its economy, and consolidating its regional and international diplomatic role.
Leadership of Wisdom and Compassion
After the passing of the late Emir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad, may God have mercy on him, on September 29, 2020, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad took the throne amidst smooth procedures that embodied institutional stability in Kuwait, reflecting the spirit of popular and political cohesion around the country's leadership.
He took the constitutional oath before the National Assembly on September 30, 2020, becoming the sixteenth ruler of the State of Kuwait, affirming in his speech the necessity of preserving national unity, continuing the path of construction and development, and upholding the values of law and the constitution.
A Year of Acclaimed Achievements
The first year of Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad's rule was not an ordinary year but was marked by historic decisions that impacted the political, economic, and social landscape.
Gulf Reconciliation: A Dream Come True
Sheikh Nawaf, may God have mercy on him, was a worthy successor to his brother Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad in continuing efforts for Gulf reconciliation. The 41st Gulf Summit in Al-Ula, Saudi Arabia witnessed the signing of the Gulf reconciliation agreement in January 2021, ending the crisis of the blockade imposed on Qatar and restoring unity and cohesion among the Gulf states.
In statements after the agreement, His Highness confirmed that "what unites us is greater than what divides us, and the interests of our people are above all considerations," reflecting the wisdom of Kuwaiti leadership that has always stood at the forefront of resolving regional and international disputes.
Political Reform and National Dialogue
On September 29, 2021, His Highness delivered a call for a national dialogue that brought together the legislative and executive authorities, aimed at creating a conducive environment and uniting efforts to enhance cooperation between the two authorities and resolve outstanding issues, ensuring political stability and achieving national interest.
This initiative came at a critical time when tensions between the executive and legislative authorities were at their peak. However, the wisdom of the late prince led to a calming of the situation, and the national dialogue resulted in a political breakthrough, with the issuance of a royal amnesty decree that included several Kuwaitis convicted in political cases.
Supporting the Kuwaiti Economy: Direction Towards Reform
The late Sheikh Nawaf focused on stimulating economic sectors and enhancing the investment environment in Kuwait, emphasizing the role of the private sector in supporting the national economy. He directed the government to achieve economic diversification, support industry and agriculture, and open new horizons for local and foreign investment. This contributed to the restructuring of productive sectors and enhanced job opportunities for Kuwaiti youth.
Supporting Youth: The Core Pillar of the Future
He viewed youth as the future of Kuwait and its true wealth, and thus he was keen to support them by opening avenues for education and training, preparing them to be leaders of the future across various sectors. In his repeated meetings with Kuwaiti youth, he urged them to strive and innovate, praising their sports and scientific achievements, as well as their initiatives in facing national challenges, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when youth were at the forefront of volunteering and participating in health campaigns.
Humanitarian Role: Continuing the Path of Giving
He was a model of humanitarian leadership, continuing the humanitarian approach of Kuwait following the steps of the late Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad, may God rest his soul. During his tenure, Kuwait provided humanitarian assistance to countries affected by conflicts and natural disasters, such as Yemen, Syria, and Lebanon. This included medical, food, and relief aid, as well as directing health support to countries affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, including Tunisia, Greece, and Turkey, where Kuwait sent ventilators and urgent medical assistance.
Messages of Love and Loyalty: Farewell to the Father Emir
On the first anniversary of Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad's passing, feelings of sadness renew in the hearts of Kuwaitis who loved their Emir and who he loved in return. He was a prince of hearts before being a prince of the state. The late emir left behind a lasting legacy of wisdom, compassion, and humanity, and enjoyed a journey of giving that lasted for over 60 years in service to Kuwait and its people.
The Departure of the Leader: The Legacy Remains
On December 16, 2023, sorrow enveloped Kuwait with the passing of Emir Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. Kuwait announced a formal period of mourning, and prayers rose from every Kuwaiti home, asking for mercy and forgiveness for their beloved deceased. The achievements of the late prince continue to stand witness to his wise leadership and his national journey, which experienced pivotal moments in the history of Kuwait, from security to the economy, from politics to humanitarian work, and from Gulf reconciliation to supporting the issues of the Arab and Islamic nations, especially the Palestinian cause.
Today, calls are renewed for God to make his grave a garden from the gardens of Paradise, and to reward him for every good deed he left behind, and for his memory to remain a beacon for every leader who believes in truth and justice and works for the sake of his homeland and his nation.
The homeland will not forget you, O Abu Faisal; you will remain present in our hearts and minds.
O God, have mercy on him, and make his abode Paradise, and protect Kuwait and its people from all harm.
