Kuwait city: The International Islamic Charitable Organization (IICO) announced the implementation of a relief project to operate 25 bakeries in the Gaza Strip in partnership with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). This initiative aims to alleviate the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, which has been exacerbated by blockade conditions, damaged infrastructure, fuel shortages, and a lack of basic supplies since October 2023.
According to Kuwait News Agency, the project seeks to provide bread free of charge, particularly after the shutdown of several bakeries, flour shortages, and soaring prices that have become unaffordable for residents. IICO's press statement highlighted that the project will supply around 190 tons of wheat flour and essential production materials to operate the bakeries for a month, ensuring the daily and regular distribution of bread to 19,019 displaced persons across various areas of the Strip.
The total cost of the project is KD 184,570 (approximately USD 602,000), with KD 305 (approximately USD 990) capable of providing bread for nearly 1,000 people, demonstrating the project's efficiency in converting donations into direct humanitarian impact. IICO estimates that the total number of beneficiaries will be approximately 570,570 people. The initiative not only aims to secure food but also to help curb malnutrition, reduce pressure on the health sector, and provide a measure of stability for families facing dire humanitarian conditions.
The organization emphasized that supporting bakery operations in Gaza is an urgent humanitarian response to save lives, preserve dignity, and strengthen the resilience of affected families. IICO urged donors to continue supporting its relief efforts in the Strip.