Studies underway to streamline ministries and enhance government efficiency

KUWAIT CITY, Feb 9: Informed sources have disclosed that a growing trend is emerging across ministries in the country aimed at streamlining administrative structures through the merging of departments and sectors. The goal of this initiative is to eliminate redundancies by consolidating divisions with similar functions and, in some cases, eliminating departments with overlapping responsibilities. This is part of a broader governmental effort to improve efficiency and create a more cost-effective public administration.

Sources emphasized that there is no set target for the number of reductions, as the need for restructuring differs from one ministry to another. Instead, each ministry is independently assessing its own needs. The objective is to combine similar departments, reduce duplication, optimize operations, and enhance overall efficiency, which will ultimately lower costs to public funds.

Preliminary studies conducted by some ministries indicate potential for reducing the number of sectors within certain entities. However, these studies are still in the early stages, and the results remain inconclusive. Additionally, it was noted that the approach to these changes is not standardized across all ministries, with decisions depending on the specific departments involved and the extent of overlap in their activities.

One example of such restructuring is the recent approval by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) of a proposal from the Ministry of Social Affairs to merge its Planning and Follow-up Department with the Administrative Development Department. Both departments were identified as having similar functions, making the merger a natural step in the government's initiative to streamline operations and boost efficiency.

While the specifics of the restructuring vary, the overall aim is clear: to reduce administrative duplication, improve government operations, and ultimately strengthen the country's public sector and economy.