KUWAIT CITY, Jan 25: Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs Dr. Amthal Al-Huwailah on Sunday described the Central Control Room project for monitoring cooperative societies as a “first step” and a strategic move toward comprehensive automated linkage and enhanced security across the sector.

Al-Huwailah made the remarks during an inspection visit to the Central Control Room in the Abdullah Al-Salem suburb, where she reviewed operations of the automated surveillance camera system covering cooperative societies. She said the system demonstrates close integration between the Ministry of Social Affairs and other government entities, including the Ministries of Commerce and Industry and Interior, aiming to safeguard strategic stock, enhance security, and protect consumers’ rights.

The minister noted that the ministry plans to expand the system to include cooperative branches and malls in the future, with efforts underway to increase the number of cameras and intensify monitoring across all facilities. She added that this initiative runs alongside an automated financial and administrative linkage system, which she described as a key pillar for strengthening oversight and ensuring performance efficiency.

Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Financial and Administrative Affairs and Cooperative Affairs Dr. Sayed Issa said the Central Control Room represents a “qualitative shift” in food security and community oversight, reflecting the desired level of governmental integration.

Dr. Issa explained that the system provides real-time access to reports and direct monitoring through 191 surveillance points across ration centers and at least 76 cooperative societies, operating on a 24/7 live broadcast system. The system also stores recordings for up to four months, allowing reference when needed. He added that the monitoring has helped curb violations by employees or visitors, reinforcing discipline and improving security in these key facilities.

Looking ahead, Dr. Issa said the project aims to cover all cooperative centers and include entrances and exits of residential areas within the monitoring network, ensuring comprehensive oversight and security nationwide.

Dr. Sayed Issa, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Financial and Administrative Affairs and Cooperative Affairs

Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, Dr. Amthal Al-Huwaila,h inspects the Central Control Room