“Rural Development Teams” to be established in 5 regions of Kazakhstan

A pilot project entitled “Rural Development Teams” is being launched in the Turkistan, Zhambyl, West Kazakhstan, Pavlodar and Kostanay regions. The initiative aims to increase the incomes of rural residents and ensure that government support is tailored to the specific needs of individual households. Deputy Minister of National Economy Bauyrzhan Omarbekov visited the Sauran District of the Turkistan Region to review the implementation of the new approach.

The model is based on individualized engagement with each household, taking into account its specific needs and available resources. Rural residents will receive assistance in finding employment, acquiring relevant skills, starting their own businesses and increasing their income.

Bauyrzhan Omarbekov emphasized that specialists must have a clear understanding of each household’s needs and identify tailored pathways to employment, entrepreneurship and higher incomes. “This approach will make government support more targeted and effective,” the Deputy Minister noted.

Team Composition and Responsibilities

The teams will comprise specialists in employment, entrepreneurship, agriculture, social assistance and legal support. They will inform households about available government support measures and provide end-to-end assistance, from training and grant allocation to business start-up.

At the district level, activities will be coordinated by a Rural Development Manager. The manager will assist residents with employment, vocational training, access to grants and concessional loans. In the Babaykorgan rural district of Sauran District, the manager has already taken up the position, the team has been formed and an action plan has been approved.

One of the key support instruments will be the “Auyl Amanaty” programme. It provides for concessional microloans at an annual interest rate of 2.5% for rural residents seeking to establish or expand their own businesses.

Recognition of Entrepreneurs

The working visit concluded in Turkistan with a ceremony held to mark Entrepreneurs’ Day of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Business representatives who have made a significant contribution to the development of the regional and national economies were recognized for their achievements.