LocationsIn Min-Kush, with the support of the European Union, UNDP, and the OSCE, community-driven initiatives are being implemented, including a children's camp, a fitness center, local tourism development, and youth training in digital promotion.
Local initiatives in Min-Kush: New opportunities following the remediation of uranium legacy sites
October 5, 2026
Min-Kush was established as a settlement closely linked to uranium mining, and its industrial past remains an important part of the community's history. Uranium extraction ceased many years ago, and in 2026 the completion of remediation works at four former uranium legacy sites in the Min-Kush area was officially announced.
As the major restoration activities come to an end, increasing attention is being given to the settlement's future socio-economic development and to creating additional opportunities for its residents.
The remediation works were carried out under an interstate programme. At the same time, a project implemented by UNDP and the OSCE with financial support from the European Union focuses on engaging local communities and supporting initiatives that residents themselves identify as beneficial for the development of the settlement.
As part of the project, Min-Kush residents received training in the development of local initiatives and the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. Following a competitive selection process, several proposals were awarded support, including the establishment of a children's camp, a fitness center, and tourism-related services. A separate component focused on training young people in social media marketing (SMM) and digital content creation.
These initiatives address different needs within the community. The children's camp creates additional opportunities for organizing summer recreation for children. The fitness center provides residents with a dedicated space for regular physical activity. Tourism development helps systematize information about Min-Kush's routes, natural attractions, and historical sites and make it accessible to potential visitors.
Salamat Kerimov, Head of the Min-Kush Ayil Okmotu, noted that the local administration has been actively involved in supporting initiative leaders and entrepreneurs and considers the sustainability of the newly created facilities after project completion to be one of its key priorities.
Salamat Kerimov, Head of the Min-Kush Ayil Okmotu
UNDP Kyrgyzstan
One area that residents see as offering additional opportunities for the local economy is tourism. Local guides have undergone training, while information about routes, attractions, and available services is gradually being shared through social media platforms and digital maps.
Ulan Munduzbaev, one of the local guides, conducts tours and organizes horseback riding excursions. According to him, inquiries are already coming from independent travelers interested in visiting Min-Kush.
Ulan Munduzbaev
UNDP Kyrgyzstan
To support this growing sector, young residents are receiving training in producing photos and videos showcasing local nature, history, travel routes, and services. The project has also provided basic equipment for content creation. This approach helps connect local service providers with young people who can assist in promoting their businesses.
Another supported initiative was proposed by Tilek Asanbekov, a resident of Min-Kush. He suggested reviving the tradition of organizing children's outdoor recreational camps.
Tilek Asanbekov
UNDP Kyrgyzstan
"I had long wanted to establish a camp here. At first, it was just an idea. With the support of the project, we were able to develop the site, install cabins, and welcome the first children," says Tilek.
For the implementation of the initiative, he contributed his own land and participated in developing the site. With project support, cabins for short-term accommodation were installed. In the future, the site is expected to host children's camp sessions, including for children from other communities in the district.
The fitness center is another initiative proposed by local residents. It offers activities for different age groups, including fitness classes, dance sessions, and other sports-related programmes. Two local trainers have completed specialized training. For Min-Kush, this is the first fully equipped facility of its kind.
Patrick Haverman, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in the Kyrgyz Republic, emphasized that the completion of uranium legacy remediation works should be accompanied by measures aimed at supporting community development.
Patrick Haverman, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP in the Kyrgyz Republic
UNDP Kyrgyzstan
"The remediation of former uranium sites is an important milestone for Min-Kush. However, it is equally important that residents see opportunities for the future development of their settlement. That is why we support initiatives that originate within the community itself and that can create additional services, skills, and sources of income at the local level," said Patrick Haverman.
Jana Kurpisa, representing the European Union, highlighted the importance of combining international support with active community participation.
Jana Kurpisa, European Union
UNDP Kyrgyzstan
"The experience of Min-Kush demonstrates how important it is for residents to take part in defining the priorities of their own community. The role of partners is to help transform viable local ideas into concrete initiatives and create conditions for their continued development," she noted.
The supported initiatives are still at an early stage. Their long-term sustainability will depend on demand for the services provided, the engagement of local entrepreneurs and community members, and continued support from local authorities. At the same time, they give residents an opportunity to test new approaches to community development following the completion of remediation works at former uranium legacy sites.
About the project
The project “Stakeholder Engagement for Uranium Legacy Remediation in Central Asia – Phase III” is implemented by UNDP and the OSCE with financial support from the European Union.
The project aims to engage local communities in discussions related to uranium legacy sites, strengthen dialogue between residents, local authorities, and other stakeholders, and support local initiatives that contribute to the socio-economic development of affected areas.
In Kyrgyzstan, the project works with the communities of Min-Kush, Kyzyl-Jar, and Mailuu-Suu.
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