Kazakhstan presents its connectivity development model in Doha

Kazakhstan presented its approach to expanding connectivity in rural areas, on transport routes and in regions without terrestrial network coverage at the MWC26 Doha Digital Leadership Forum. Deputy PM and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development Zhaslan Madiyev outlined how the country is combining fibre-optic networks, mobile networks and satellite technologies, El.kz reports citing the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan.

The forum was held with the participation of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The discussion was moderated by ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin.

“Our task is to ensure that people have reliable connectivity wherever they live, work and travel. That is why we are developing fibre-optic infrastructure, mobile networks and satellite-based solutions as complementary technologies, taking into account both geographical conditions and people’s needs,” Zhaslan Madiyev noted.

Connecting Rural Communities

Kazakhstan has more than 6,000 rural settlements. Fixed broadband access is essential for residents at home and at work, mobile connectivity is needed while travelling, and satellite technologies make it possible to establish connections in areas without terrestrial network coverage.

Fibre-optic infrastructure remains the backbone of the country’s connectivity infrastructure. Under the national project “Affordable Internet”, fibre-optic networks are planned to be extended to more than 3,000 villages.

By the end of 2027, high-speed fixed broadband access is expected to be available in more than 90% of rural settlements. Following the construction of backbone networks, connectivity will need to be extended to individual households and organisations.

What the “Last Mile” Project Will Deliver

Kazakhstan is implementing the “Last Mile” project with the participation of the World Bank. Local telecommunications operators will be eligible for grants to deploy networks in 1,123 villages.

The project is designed to connect more than 445,000 households, with a combined population of approximately 2.3 million people.

The target access speed is at least 100 Mbps. Government support enables local operators to extend connectivity from backbone networks directly to end users. This approach could also be relevant to other countries seeking to connect remote rural communities through partnerships with private telecommunications operators.

Where Satellite Connectivity Can Make a Difference

In areas where deploying fibre-optic infrastructure is prohibitively expensive, a local mobile base station can be connected via satellite. Residents can then access conventional mobile network services. To further expand coverage, Kazakhstan is also introducing incentives for telecommunications operators to develop infrastructure in settlements where network construction requires additional investment.

In September, Beeline Kazakhstan and Starlink Mobile launched the Direct to Cell service. Owners of compatible smartphones can exchange messages and access selected online services via satellite in areas without terrestrial network coverage.

Satellite Wi-Fi is being installed on passenger trains and aircraft to ensure connectivity along routes with limited mobile network coverage. Amendments adopted in 2026 simplified the use of non-geostationary satellite systems and satellite communications on board aircraft and seagoing vessels.

How Much Does Internet Access Cost?

According to ITU data, the cost of a basic fixed broadband package in Kazakhstan amounted to 0.79% of monthly gross national income per capita. Madiyev noted that, for residents of remote villages, the cost of equipment and installation, as well as connection speed and reliability, are equally important considerations.

The global median for the same period stood at 2.5%. ITU provided these figures for the previous year.

A New Data Route Between Asia and Europe

In October, according to the Ministry, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan launched a 380-kilometre Trans-Caspian fibre-optic communications line. The project expands data transmission capacity between Asia and Europe.

The line’s designed capacity exceeds 400 Tbit/s. The new route is intended, among other things, to support the development of cloud services and artificial intelligence infrastructure.

Outcomes of the Doha Forum

At the ministerial round table, Madiyev identified the key prerequisites for sustainable digital transformation: affordable and reliable connectivity, private investment, trust and digital skills. Over the past three years, investment in Kazakhstan’s telecommunications sector has exceeded USD 2.2 billion.

Participants in the round table adopted the Doha Ministerial Declaration, which sets out shared priorities for expanding connectivity, strengthening digital infrastructure and cybersecurity, promoting the responsible development of artificial intelligence, enhancing digital skills and advancing international cooperation.

Kazakhstan stands ready to share its experience through the ITU in connecting rural communities, engaging local telecommunications operators and deploying satellite connectivity solutions. The country also intends to contribute to international initiatives aimed at expanding access to digital services and has put forward its candidacy for election to the ITU Council for the 2027–2030 term.