KUWAIT CITY, May 21: Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem visited the Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAFRI) on Wednesday, where he was briefed by Director General Salem Al-Hai and his deputies on key agricultural projects and the ongoing response to the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak affecting local farms.

During the visit, Dr. Al-Mukhaizeem stressed the need for strict enforcement of regulations governing violations on farms and land holdings, as well as the importance of adhering to contractual terms. He also highlighted the Authority’s role in supporting beautification initiatives along major roads and in newly developed urban areas.

According to recent PAAFRI statistics obtained a total of 22,673 cows were recorded on farms in Sulaibiya, with 12,854 cases of foot-and-mouth disease reported, accounting for more than half the herd. As of Wednesday, 192 cattle deaths and 2,831 recoveries had been confirmed.

The Authority affirmed that veterinary and technical teams are continuing field operations to monitor the situation and implement treatment and prevention protocols, in coordination with farm owners. A shipment of vaccines is expected to arrive within the coming week.

Separately, the Minister met with Abbas Hussein Abdul Redha, Chairman of the Agricultural Engineers Association, to explore opportunities for collaboration and development within Kuwait’s agricultural sector. Abdul Redha thanked the minister for his commitment and support.