Dr. Abdul Rahman Hamoud Al Sumait, a prominent figure in Kuwait and a revered humanitarian, dedicated his life to serving humanity, particularly in the realm of healthcare and education across Africa. His unwavering commitment and selfless contributions have left an indelible mark on countless lives, earning him admiration and respect globally.
Early Life and Education
Born in Kuwait in 1947, Dr. Abdul Rahman Al Sumait exhibited a passion for learning and a compassionate heart from a young age. He pursued his education with zeal, obtaining a medical degree from the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin, Ireland, before furthering his studies in tropical medicine at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine.
Founding DirectAid
Driven by a deep sense of empathy and a desire to alleviate the suffering of the less privileged, Dr. Al Sumait co-founded DirectAid in 1981, a Kuwait- based non-profit organization dedicated to humanitarian work in Africa. His vision was to create a lasting impact by providing essential services and sustainable solutions to communities in need.
This organization went on to open offices in 29 countries, and to join the United Nations in 1998 as a General Consultant in the Economical and Social Board.
Humanitarian Contributions
Dr. Al Sumait’s tireless efforts in humanitarian work focused primarily on healthcare and education initiatives across Africa. He believed that these pillars were fundamental in empowering communities to rise above poverty and achieve sustainable development.
Healthcare Initiatives:
Under Dr. Al Sumait’s guidance, DirectAid established hospitals, clinics, and medical centers in various African countries, providing access to quality healthcare services to underserved populations. His initiatives aimed to combat prevalent diseases, improve maternal and child health, and enhance overall healthcare infrastructure.
Education Programs:
Recognizing the transformative power of education, Dr. Al Sumait spearheaded the establishment of schools, vocational training centers, and universities in Africa. His commitment to education aimed to equip individuals with knowledge and skills, enabling them to build brighter futures for themselves and their communities.
Legacy and Impact
Dr. Abdul Rahman Hamoud Al Sumait’s legacy extends far beyond his achievements. His profound impact on humanitarianism in Africa earned him widespread recognition and respect. His dedication to uplifting the marginalized and providing hope to those in need resonates through the sustainable projects and institutions he helped create.
The Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS) carries an award named after him: the annual Al-Sumait Prize ‘honors individuals or institutions who have, through their work or research, made significant advances in the fields of food security, health, and education in Africa.
According to The Productive Muslim Company, Dr. Abdul Rahman Hamoud Al Sumait supported 9,500 orphans; financed 95,000 students and 5,700 mosques; opened 200 training centers for women, 860 schools and four universities; founded 102 Islamic centers; created 9,500 wells; distributed 51 million Qur’ans, and converted 7 million people to Islam.
Dr. Abdul Rahman Hamoud Al Sumait’s life stands as a testament to the transformative power of compassion and dedication. His legacy continues through the ongoing work of DirectAid, as the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing healthcare, education, and sustainable development in Africa.
Dr. Al Sumait’s unwavering dedication to serving humanity serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the profound difference one individual can make in the lives of countless others.