Qatar

HE President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Bola Ahmed Tinubu's visit to the State of Qatar reflects a common desire to bolster the two countries' bilateral relations and elevate them to new levels.The Qatar-Nigeria relations have remarkably developed since the opening of their embassies in 2013, a solid step that paved the way for building bridges of communication and cooperation. Since then, the two parties have demonstrated strength and determination to consolidate their relations by making many mutual visits.In February 2016, HE Nigeria's Former President Muhammadu Buhari paid a visit to Doha that witnessed the signing of several agreements, while HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani visited the Federal Republic of Nigeria in April 2019, within the framework of the natural development of the growing bilateral relations.The relations were further elevated in March 2022, with the two sides holding the Qatar-Nigeria Economic Forum in Nigeria's economic capital of Lagos - an event that discussed areas of economic cooperation.The event reflected the firm desire of both countries' wise leaderships to deepen bilateral relations and offered an opportunity for both parties to unleash future partnerships between leading private sector institutions in both countries, and to establish stronger bilateral economic cooperation.In 2023, the former Nigerian President participated in the Fifth United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5), held under the theme "From Potential to Prosperity," and inaugurated by HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.The State of Qatar's robust relations with Nigeria is part of its massive connection with Africa, given Doha's huge support for African nations, whether bilaterally through Qatari agencies or multilaterally via strategic partnerships with the United Nations and other relevant international organizations. Spanning across an array of areas including development, humanitarian aid, education and health as well as offering job opportunities, this assistance is based on the Qatar National Vision 2030, which clearly attaches great importance to solidarity with countries, peoples and communities hit by humanitarian crises, conflicts and poverty.Situated in West Africa on an area of 923,769 square kilometers, Nigeria borders the Republic of Niger in the north, the Republic of Chad and the Republic of Cameroon in the east, the Republic of Benin in the west and the Atlantic Ocean in the south. Home to roughly 224 million people, Nigeria is Africa's most populated country, largest economy and top oil-producer.HE President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, 72, assumed office as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in May 2023. (QNA)

HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani sent Sunday a cable of congratulations to HE Prime Minister of the Republic of Bulgaria Nikolai Denkov on the occasion of his Country's National Day. (QNA)

HH the Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Thani sent Sunday a cable of congratulations to HE President of the Republic of Bulgaria Rumen Radev on the occasion of his Country's National Day. (QNA)

HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani sent Sunday a cable of congratulations to HE President of the Republic of Bulgaria Rumen Radev on the occasion of his Country's National Day. (QNA)

Weather inshore until 6:00 pm on Sunday will be hazy at places at first becomes moderate temperature daytime with scattered clouds, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather report.Offshore, it will be hazy and scattered clouds to partly cloudy with chance of rain by late night, the report added, warning of expected strong wind and high sea by evening.Wind inshore will be southeasterly 05 to 15 knot, gusting to 23 knot at places by evening.Offshore, it will be southeasterly 05 to 15 knot gust to 25 knot by evening.Visibility will be 04 to 09 kilometers.Sea state inshore will be 1 to 3 feet, rises to 5 feet by evening. Offshore, it will be 2 to 4 feet, rises to 8 feet by evening.Area High Tide Low Tide Mini---------- ---------------- ------------------- -------------Messaid00:03 **:**16:18 **:** 13Wakrah: 08:48 18:0705:38 16:30 14Doha: 07:25 23:5204:15 15:44 15Al Khor: 08:08 23:5004:01 16:11 10Ruwais 09:33 22:0603:52 15:43 11Dukhan: 02:42 14:5709:05 20:53 11Sunrise: 05:53 LTSunset: 17:37 LT------------------(QNA)

The Ministry of Interior's the General Directorate of Traffic will mark the 36th GCC Traffic Week which kicks off Sunday and runs until March 8 under the theme "Driving Without a Phone".Director General of Traffic Maj Gen Abdulaziz bin Jassim al-Thani emphasised that the ministry bolsters road safety and highlights the risks of traffic accidents and their impact on all community segments.The reduction in the number of traffic violations and accidents during the past period is an indication of the surge in traffic awareness, he said.He pointed out that the the General Directorate of Traffic will spare no effort to promote traffic awareness and culture and strengthen the adherence to traffic rules, in addition to taking essential measures to control traffic felonies and erratic behavior that squarely pose a threat to safety on roads.This year's theme "Driving Without a Phone" underscores the risks arising from this felony, because it is one of the major causes of traffic accidents, he underlined, highlighting that the directorate started to operate the unified radar system to detect violations on seat belt and mobile phone use while driving last September within the framework of its continuous efforts to achieve the maximum utilisation of electronic systems in controlling traffic and maximise road surveillance.The General Directorate of Traffic is set to launch an awareness campaign, as well as a variety of cultural activities to spur drivers and road users to adhere to laws and rules to achieve the highest levels of traffic security and safety.

The Ras Laffan Community Outreach Programme (COP) in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior (MoI) recently organised a workshop for safety ambassadors from companies. Titled ‘Corporate Awareness Ambassadors’, the two-day workshop was conducted as part of the third edition of BEDAR Workers’ Outreach Programme. According to a statement from MoI, the workshop aims to promote awareness of security, safety, societal culture and occupational safety in the corporate work environment.As many as 28 safety ambassadors from 14 major companies working in the North area of Qatar, representing around 50,000 workers participated in the workshop. The workshop hosted officers from various MoI departments and specialists in the fields of security, safety, physical fitness, societal culture, health and hygiene and occupational safety.

Over 360 healthcare professionals attended a symposium on lifestyle medicine to discuss the recent advances in lifestyle medicine education, medical practice and research.Organised by the Institute for Population Health at Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q), the one-day symposium brought together experts from Qatar, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Croatia, Hungary, India, Lithuania, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Sri Lanka, and the United States.Titled ‘Lifestyle Medicine - Redefining Healthcare to Promote Wellbeing’, the symposium featured speakers and panellists from Lifestyle Medicine Global Alliance (LMGA), International Board of Lifestyle Medicine , World Health Organisation Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, United Nations Population Fund, the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), Qatar, and global lifestyle medicine societies.In addition to the symposium, the Lifestyle Medicine Global Alliance Leadership Forum, was held, where experts discussed the Doha Declaration and Lifestyle Medicine competencies.Lifestyle Medicine employs evidence-based strategies to prevent, treat and manage chronic diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension while enhancing overall health and wellbeing. These strategies encompass adopting positive lifestyle habits such as regular physical activity, healthy nutrition, effective stress management, restorative sleep, social connections and abstaining from harmful substances.The symposium began with a welcome message from Dr Javaid Sheikh, dean of WCM-Q, and introductory remarks from symposium organisers — Dr Ravinder Mamtani, professor of population health sciences, and vice dean for population health and lifestyle medicine at WCM-Q, and Dr Sohaila Cheema, assistant dean for IPH and associate professor of clinical population health sciences at WCM-Q.Other key speakers included Sheikh Dr Mohamed bin Hamad al-Thani, director of non-communicable diseases prevention programmes department, MoPH; Dr Wayne Dysinger, chair, LMGA, US; Dr Samar ElFeky, regional adviser for health promotion and social determinants of health at WHO Regional Office in Cairo; Dr Sathyanarayanan Doraiswamy, operational support and quality assurance branch chief, UNFPA; Dr Padmaja Patel, president elect, American College of Lifestyle Medicine; and Dr Amy Mechley, chair of the International Board of Lifestyle Medicine.Dr Sheikh said: “The symposium and inaugural LMGA global forum provide an excellent platform for global leaders in lifestyle medicine to share their insights and contribute to the advancement of healthcare. WCM-Q’s initiatives, such as Innovations in Global Health Professions Education, showcase a commitment to pushing the boundaries of health education and making a positive global impact.”Sheikh Dr Mohamed said: “MoPH is dedicated to promoting the fundamental principles of healthy living and preventative healthcare to help mitigate the prevalence of non-communicable diseases. Through education, advocacy and policy initiatives, we aim to empower individuals to make informed health choices.”

The Qatar International Court and Dispute Resolution Centre (QICDRC) has successfully hosted “The Art of Advocacy” providing legal experts with invaluable insights into the essential skills and strategies required for effective legal representation.The event, according to a statement from QICDRC, featured a distinguished panel of speakers, each renowned for their expertise in the field of advocacy, including the QICDRC Enforcement Judge, Dr Muna al-Marzouqi; Dr Nasser al-Adba, Lawyer and Chairman at Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Qatar – QFC Branch; Michael Bowsher KC, Barrister, Visiting Professor and Arbitrator at Monckton Chambers; and QICDRC’s registrar, Umar Azmeh. The speakers shared their extensive knowledge and practical insights with the audience. Throughout the discussion, attendees engaged in in-depth discussions on various aspects of advocacy, specifically written and oral presentation techniques. The panellists shared real-world examples, offering practical advice, and highlighting key do's and don'ts for successful advocacy.”As a judge, I've seen first-hand the impact of effective advocacy on the outcomes of legal proceedings. It was a pleasure to be a part of this panel discussion, it was a fantastic opportunity for legal professionals to gain insights into the art of advocacy and refine their skills to better serve their clients and the justice system," al-Marzouqi said.This event is a testament to QICDRC’s commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development among legal practitioners in Qatar. By providing a platform for knowledge sharing and engagement, QICDRC aims to elevate the legal field in the region and encourage active participation from the wider legal community.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, His Highness the Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al-Thani and HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani sent Saturday cables of condolences to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz al-Saud of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on the death of Prince Turki bin Abdullah Nasser bin Abdulaziz al-Saud.

Ooredoo Group has announced a new venture of Over-The-Top (OTT) streaming with the launch of its first-ever streaming platform, 'Go Play Market', in partnership with MediaKind and supported by Microsoft.The signing ceremony took place during the Mobile World Congress 2024 in Barcelona.Leveraging MediaKind's advanced technology platform, powered by Microsoft Azure, 'Go Play Market' offers a wide range of entertainment options - including live TV channels, video-on-demand, and much more - from various digital players and content partners through a single platform.The platform has been officially launched in six of Ooredoo Group's markets, including Oman, Kuwait, Iraq, Tunisia, Algeria, and the Maldives - catering not only to Ooredoo customers but also expanding its reach to non-Ooredoo subscribers in these markets.Aziz Aluthman Fakhroo, Group MD and CEO, Ooredoo, said: “With 'Go Play Market', our goal is to establish a comprehensive entertainment hub, tailored to meet the diverse preferences of our customers, as well as non-Ooredoo subscribers, across multiple markets. Our collaboration with MediaKind and Microsoft to launch 'Go Play Market' marks a significant milestone in our efforts to broaden our offerings and upgrade the entertainment experience for everyone in the markets where this platform is accessible.”Allen Broome, CEO, MediaKind, said: “Collaborating with Ooredoo and Microsoft on the launch of 'Go Play Market' is a thrilling venture for MediaKind. We are proud to leverage our cloud native MediaFirst and Aquila live streaming platforms to create cutting-edge entertainment services matching Ooredoo’s market ambitions for the region.”Paco Salcedo, general manager enterprise, Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East & Africa at Microsoft, said: “Partnering with Ooredoo Group and MediaKind for the inauguration of 'Go Play Market' marks an exciting milestone in our commitment to revolutionise the entertainment landscape. By leveraging the cutting-edge capabilities of Microsoft Azure, we're enabling 'Go Play Market' to offer a rich and diverse range of content to audiences in Oman, Kuwait, Iraq, Tunisia, Algeria, and the Maldives."

Qatar Charity has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Terra Energy, a sustainable energy consulting firm in Rwanda. This is, according to an official statement, part of the implementation of the "Taqatuna" programme to develop skills in the sustainable energy sector in African countries. This partnership is aimed at empowering African youth in the renewable energy and sustainability sectors through comprehensive training and mentorship initiatives through Qatar Charity's “Rofaqa” initiative in five African countries: Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Somalia, and Burkina Faso. Under the agreement, training in renewable energy has commenced for 80 students sponsored by Qatar Charity in Rwanda. Strategic Partnership Abdullah al-Kohaji, Director of the Child and Family Care Department at Qatar Charity, said this partnership aims to empower African youth in general and those sponsored by Qatar Charity through its “Rofaqa” initiative to spearhead the clean energy transition across Africa. "We emphasise the importance of these qualitative programs for the sponsored in Africa, especially given the numerous economic challenges. Our goal at Qatar Charity today is to empower African youth professionally and practically through a mentorship program to enter the job market and launch their projects,” he added. Dr Mohamed Alhaj, Managing Director of Terra Energy, expressed his excitement about the partnership. He said Terra Energy is immensely proud to align its efforts with Qatar Charity in empowering African youth to spearhead the clean energy transition across Africa. “This partnership will combine the collective expertise and resources of both organisations to deliver technical and skills-focused training to young African changemakers in renewable energy, climate change, and sustainability. The partnership consisted of an intensive skills development boot course and a mentorship program designed to prepare African youth through the “Rofaqa” initiative for the job market and enable them to launch their projects.” Next Generation This partnership comes amidst challenges, being faced by Africa, whose 400 mn youth population under the age of 35 are immensely impacted by energy poverty, climate change, and economic inequalities. With a shared commitment to advancing renewable energy and sustainability initiatives, Terra Energy and Qatar Charity aim to nurture the next generation of African leaders equipping them with the requisite technical proficiencies and leadership acumen to champion the sustainable energy transition in Africa. “Rofaqa” is one of Qatar Charity's humanitarian initiatives, focusing comprehensively on the issues of children and orphans worldwide. It provides comprehensive care for them through programs, projects, and activities in the areas of social welfare, social housing and economic employment.

A key player situated at the heart of Qatar’s innovation ecosystem, Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) proved to be a natural partner for Web Summit Qatar 2024.Through the showcasing of eight technologies and eight startups developed within its research and innovation ecosystem and participation in expert discussions, the university’s contribution underscored its commitment to entrepreneurship and making connections between changemakers to address national research priorities and global challenges. Web Summit Qatar 2024 was also an opportunity to highlight HBKU’s focus on research commercialisation, as well as how academic institutions shape and inform knowledge-based economies.Dr Ahmad M Hasnah, president, HBKU, noted: “Web Summit Qatar 2024 is a confirmation of the country’s determined leadership in establishing a truly international science and technology hub and center for entrepreneurship and innovation. It is a journey defined by constant collaboration between academia and industry, and one that will continue for the foreseeable future.”Eight start-ups featured at Web Summit Qatar 2024 were initiated by HBKU researchers, faculty, and students, with support from the university’s robust incubation and development infrastructure. Facilitated by HBKU’s Office of Innovation and Industrial Relations, the university's comprehensive innovation management model aids entrepreneurs throughout their entrepreneurship journeys, offering access to resources and expertise within HBKU’s innovation ecosystem.Thuraya Nasser al-Mulla, a student at HBKU’s College of Science and Engineering, represented the university’s entrepreneurial community in a talk highlighting her sustainable fintech startup receipts, which aims to foster sustainable consumerism by introducing smart receipts and reducing paper waste.HBKU played a leading role in fostering collaboration between like-minded institutions and entities at Web Summit Qatar 2024, with faculty and researchers joining a global dialogue on critical topics that inform Qatar’s national research priorities.Members of the CSE faculty gave talks on an array of topics at the cutting edge of artificial intelligence (AI), such as the emergence of edge intelligence, impact of quantum computing, and importance of AI education. They also commented on and analyzed existing applications of Green Tech in agriculture, desalination, oil and gas production, and other industries.Qatar Computing Research Institute weighed in on a variety of subjects impacting technology research, including advancements made in the deployment of large language models and strengthening of IT systems from increasing cybersecurity threats. Dr Sanjay Chawla, research director, Data Analytics, joined a future-oriented discussion on how organisations can integrate generative AI into workflows to drive creativity and innovation while ensuring advancements are covered by cybersecurity measures.

Qatar, represented by HE the Minister of Labour Dr Ali bin Smaikh al-Marri, chaired the 100th session of the Board of Directors of the Arab Labour Organisation in Cairo. The session was convened with the participation of representatives of the three production parties in the Arab countries (governments, employers, workers) according to the principle of tripartite representation, and a number of relevant Arab and regional organisations. HE Dr al-Marri affirmed that Qatar has achieved pioneering accomplishments in the labour sector in realisation of the Third National Development Strategy towards Qatar National Vision 2030 and achieving a safe and healthy work environment, noting the keenness to activate effective partnership with Arab and international organisations and bodies to enhance the work environment and improve working conditions and terms. He pointed out that the various crises the world has witnessed in recent years posed a tangible challenge to the economies of the Arab countries, highlighting the importance of expanding the umbrella of social protection to include workers in the informal sector in an effort to achieve sustainable development based on the three production parties (governments — employers — workers). He praised the Arab role and the importance of unifying Arab positions at the international level, emphasising the necessity of joint efforts and enhancing co-operation to face the economic and social challenges most Arab countries encounter. HE Dr al-Marri said: "The unprecedented destruction of infrastructure in the Gaza Strip, the lack of decent livelihoods for workers, the crises experienced by the Palestinian labour market, in addition to the arbitrary measures by the occupation authorities, necessitate finding appropriate mechanisms to support the Palestinian labour sector, and the international community's responsibility to pressure the occupation authorities to pay the overdue dues to the Palestinian workers and compensate them for the damage suffered and allow them to return to their work." In a relevant context, he reiterated Qatar's firm position on the Palestinian issue, which is the Arab committed position that peace should be based on a comprehensive, fair, and permanent settlement based on international legitimacy, emphasising the position of the Arab Labour Organisation on joint Arab work in supporting Palestinian workers in the occupied territories and improving their living and life conditions. He voiced his hope that the meeting would yield positive results that meet the needs and aspirations of the Arab peoples. The board discussed an array of important items and reports and issued decisions and recommendations related to following up on the decisions of the 99th session of the Board of Directors of the Arab Labour Organisation held in Qatar in October 2023, the report on the conditions of workers and the Palestinian people in the occupied Arab territories, and presented to the Council the draft Arab strategy for workforce development and employment, and the report on the results of the work of the Economic and Social Council. Qatar has chaired the Board of Directors of the Arab Labour Organisation since its election last October for a one-year term ending in October 2024.

Old Doha Port participated in the Dubai International Boat Show 2024, for the second consecutive year.In a statement Saturday, the port said that it had concluded a co-operation and partnership agreement with Yas Marina in Abu Dhabi to enhance cruises and marine tourism, with a set of offers and advantages through the mutual benefits programme between members of the two facilities to provide a unique experience for owners of yachts and marine vessels.Under the agreement, members of Old Doha Port Marina will enjoy a free berth for a week every three months at both marinas starting March 1, in addition to a 20% discount on a number of restaurants and coffee shops, in addition to discounts on hotel accommodation and boat maintenance services provided by the port in the containers yard.Executive Director of Old Doha Port Mohamed Abdullah al-Mulla said that the co-operation with Yas Marina comes in support of the port's strategy in attracting yachts and highlighting the facilities that have been recently developed to support tourism, in addition to providing an exceptional experience for owners of yachts and marine vessels.The port will successfully conclude its second participation in the show today. Old Doha Port's pavilion received a large turnout from visitors to the exhibition, which is considered one of the most prominent exhibitions in the region. The port will also participate in several international exhibitions in the coming period in support of the marketing strategy and plans that the port is working on.

LuLu Group has opened its 23rd hypermarket in Qatar at Doha Mall. The expansive two-level, 80,000sq ft store is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and an extensive range of quality products, aiming to elevate the shopping experience for customers.The inauguration ceremony, held on Thursday, witnessed the presence of Qatari businessman Abdul Aziz Mohamed al-Rabban alongside Sheikh Abdullah bin Hassan al-Thani, Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamad bin Jassim al-Thani, Indian ambassador Vipul, Joseph Abraham (Group CEO of Commercial Bank of Qatar), Yusuff Ali MA (Chairman and Managing Director of LuLu Group International) and other esteemed dignitaries. Ambassadors from Sri Lanka, Ecuador, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Croatia, Poland, Ashraf Ali MA (Executive Director of LuLu Group International), Dr Mohamed Althaf (LuLu Group Director) and other senior management officials were also present.The new hypermarket introduces an extensive array of fresh produce sourced globally, an in-house bakery, and innovative shopping options including the renowned Planet Y featuring plant-based alternatives and a zero-waste refill station.Shoppers can explore popular LuLu shopping stations such as LuLu Fashion, LuLu Connect for electronics, EyeXpress, BLSH for beauty and cosmetics, reo-speciality apparel and accessories retailer for men, women and children, and a dedicated section for the latest IoT appliances and electronics. With ample parking spaces, self-checkout, and green checkout counters, LuLu ensures a seamless and eco-friendly shopping experience.Yusuff Ali said Lulu Group is glad to see another beautiful store opening that will cater to our loyal patrons living in Abu Hamour and its nearby areas. “As a leading regional retailer, it is our enduring commitment to innovate and provide a world-class shopping experience to the diverse multinational population in Qatar. We thank the wise leadership of Qatar under HH the Amir, HE the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister and the Government for the continuous support being extended to us as we are on track to further expand our Qatar operations,” he said. Yusuff Ali also extended heartfelt appreciation to all valued customers whose loyalty has been instrumental in the success and growth of the LuLu Group in the region.LuLu Hypermarket Doha Mall is the destination for cutting-edge smart home accessories. The newly opened store features a dedicated department tailored to the Internet of Things and Smart home devices, aimed at simplifying the concept of a smart home for our customers. In addition to the hypermarket launch, LuLu Group takes a significant step toward customer satisfaction with the introduction of its new loyalty reward programme, "Lulu Happiness." This innovative programme, designed to enhance the overall shopping experience and acknowledge customer loyalty, offers exclusive perks, additional discounts, and redeemable points with every purchase at any LuLu Hypermarket.Sheikh Mohamed bin Hassan al-Thani, along with Yusuffali MA (Chairman and Managing Director of LuLu Group), unveiled the "Happiness" reward programme during a ceremony at LuLu Hypermarket in Doha Mall.Becoming a member of the "Lulu Happiness" programme is simple, whether through conveniently located kiosks at LuLu hypermarkets or via online registration. Shoppers can access a range of exclusive offers and accumulate redeemable points, adding extra value to their shopping endeavours.The hypermarket places a strong emphasis on sustainability, offering services such as wheelchair accessibility, seating areas, gift wrapping, and featuring a Reverse Vending Machine for recycling plastic bottles. Smart technology is integrated throughout the store, enhancing the shopping experience with self-checkouts and a streamlined checkout system.Key Features of LuLu Hypermarket at Doha Mall:· Smart technology for a smoother shopping experience, including self-checkouts.· Zero Waste refill station for reusable containers with dry goods.· 'Planet-Y' section for vegan and vegetarian alternatives.· Special sections for Vegan, Organic, Keto-friendly, Super Food, Gluten-free, Protein, Dairy-free, Under 100 Calories and No Added Sugar items.· Juice Station offers a variety of freshly made juices.· Super Food Pantry stocking affordable superfood items.· Extensive Fresh Market produce section.The LuLu Hypermarket at Doha Mall stands as a testament to the group's dedication to providing a diverse and sustainable retail experience offering a wide array of products and services tailored to the evolving needs of its valued customers.

The Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) held the graduation of the first batch of Members of Accredited Programmes targeting managers, heads of departments and employees on Thursday. The programmes, according to an official statement, are provided by Kahramaa to its staff.Kahramaa president Eng. Essa Bin Hilal al-Kuwari praised all the efforts made by all those who contributed to the success of these programmes. “In Kahramaa, we are proud of the success of these programmes which aim at sharing experience and providing all our employees with practical and theoretical expertise to continue the national success and development of Qatar,” he said. The programmes also aim to prepare the new generation of students to keep pace with the rapid modernisation and development in the country.During the ceremony, the graduates were honoured. These programmes were initially launched in line with Qatar Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy to enable and qualify citizens into globally competitive individuals in the labour market as well as to implement a wide range of programs to build effective skills and develop programs in governmental corporations.The courses and programmes were conducted in collaboration with several governmental bodies and institutions including the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau, Doha Institute for Graduate Studies (DIGS), Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT), Qatar University (QU) and University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST).Kahramaa president Eng. Essa Bin Hilal al-Kuwari and the Director of the Shared Services Department Dr Eng Abdulla Mohsin al-Wahedi, honoured the directors, heads of sections and employees who participated in the programmes. The batch involved the graduates of six training programmes and specialised courses in addition to First Aid course, English Language Course and Technical Course. These programmes and courses aimed at achieving the training objectives of providing the staff with the required skills to face the new challenges in the business field.The training courses were divided into phases and included intensive theoretical lectures that discussed several topics, presented in fully equipped training halls at the corporation. The ‘Kahramaa Tatamayiaz’ programme targeted directors and heads of departments and involved 17 trainees.In addition to the ‘Kafaa’ programme for the new heads of departments, eight trainees participated. The ‘Khutwa’ programme also targeted the new staff and 31 members participated. The ‘Certified Coach’ programme had 18 staff members from different departments. ‘Rwad Programme’ involved 41 staff members from various departments and aims at preparing and qualifying internal trainers in Kahramaa. “Mahara Programme” aims at qualifying 25 electricians and information systems technicians.Several initiatives and training courses have also been implemented. The training programs were supervised by a selection of training experts, who worked under the supervision of the Training Section in the Human Resources Department at Kahramaa and in coordination with the relevant departments to improve the plans according to the latest educational practices.

The sales of the 2nd International Dates Exhibition at Souq Waqif has started to increase considerably due to the increasing demand as the Holy month of Ramadan comes closer.Speaking to local Arabic daily Arrayah a number of customers and traders stressed that the timing of the exhibition is excellent as it coincides with the expected high demand on such products during and ahead of Ramadan. Besides, the festival is well-located and easily accessible for all with various types of dates on display to appeal to the tastes of different customers.Abdulrahman bin Saoud, shopper, pointed out that holding the exhibition ahead of Ramadan is an excellent idea as it would help shoppers to buy their needs from one place with ease and avoid looking for their favourite type of dates at different outlets. Besides, the exhibition has attracted a good number of international companies in the field side by side with the local Qatari companies that display high quality locally produced dates.Faisal al-Muqbil, participating salesman from Saudi Arabia, said that the sales of his stall at the exhibition increase on daily basis, as most customers tend to buy big amounts of dates not less than five kilos to maintain good stock of their needs ahead of Ramadan as it is considered one of the essentials of any table during this period.Saleem al-Jahawashi, shopper, considered the exhibition as hot destination for many shoppers over the coming days as it displays a good variety of dates and their products. He noted that many people prefer to break their fast day with dates as a starter to give them energy before eating anything else.Salem al-Nuaimi, shopper, stressed that almost all the exhibitions and festivals held in Souq Waqif would eventually succeed on all levels including the popular level due to its distinctive and easily accessible location.

The Ethiopian embassy in Doha has marked the National Day of Ethiopia at Expo 2023 Doha in the presence of ambassador Feisal Aliyi Abrahim, other officials and a number of heads of diplomatic missions in the country.

The Iftar tents by the General Administration of Endowments at the Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs will distribute Iftar meals to 70,000 fasting people across the country during the holy month of Ramadan, the ministry announced Saturday during a press conference. Iftar meals will be distributed to 24,000 people a day in 20 tents and five distribution points.While addressing the press conference Dr Sheikh Khalid bin Mohamed bin Ghanem al-Thani, Director General of the General Administration of Endowments, said that the Iftar initiative for the fasting persons is one of the important community initiatives of the administration during the holy month and it aims to spread the spirit of solidarity among the society.“The General Administration of Endowments aims, through the initiative, to establish 20 locations and aims to provide about 700,000 meals throughout the holy month,” he explained thanking the benefactors who support the initiative. He said the number of tents and distribution points was increased due to the growing demand for Iftar meals.Mohamed bin Yaqoub al-Ali, Assistant Director General of the General Administration of Endowments, said the initiative is one of the endowment projects within the Endowment Bank for Righteousness and Piety. He explained that the sites for Iftar tents will have dining facilities.He urged the public to participate in the initiative by donating through Awqaf’s website.Through the campaign, the public administration aims to establish a year of social solidarity and interdependence, implement the conditions of those who stand by, help the needy to perform the obligation of fasting, alleviate the suffering of many workers whose circumstances don’t allow them to prepare the meals promptly and make use of the gatherings for awareness-raising and educating.The tents are at Ain Khaled (Thursday and Friday Market), Al-Sailiya (New Central Market), Industrial Area (Eid Musalla, Street 23 Al-Attiyah) Industrial Zone Street 38, Al-Rayyan (Eid Prayer Hall), Al Montazah, Umm Salal Mohamed, Al-Wakrah (opposite the old Al-Wakrah Market), Al-Khor (Othman Mosque), Bin Omran (Eid Prayer Hall), Al-Aziziyah (Eid Prayer Hall), Souq Al-Ali, Al-Sulaimi ( North Farms Area), Muraikh, next to Mosque No. (879) and Al Thumama.Meals will be distributed at Old Airport (behind Family Shopping Centre), Umm Ghuwailina (Council Cooperation Traffic Signals), Bin Mahmoud (Jaidah Bridge), Souq Al Faleh (near Al-Qubab Mosque) and Salwa Road (Azab Abu Nakhla Complex).Donors can participate in the endowment and choose the tent location via the link:https://www.awqaf.gov.qa/fasting-breakfast.