LocationsUNDP further supports local governance and sustainable development in Abay and Ulytau
August 7, 2025
Building on the momentum of the first series, UNDP, in partnership with local authorities, has launched the second round of seminars aimed at enhancing communication, transparency, and accountability within the local self-governance system.
The seminars are being held across eight districts: Ayagoz, Kokpekty, Makanshy, and Zhanasemey in the Abay region; and Karazhal, Satpayev, Zhanaarka, and Ulytau in the Ulytau region. Among participants are representatives of local akimats, maslikhats, public councils, and NGOs.
The two-day agenda encompasses a comprehensive range of topics, including simulation exercises on utilizing the eOtinish platform, techniques for monitoring local projects, and group work on developing oversight plans. By the end of the seminars, participants will have acquired practical tools and hands-on training in digital communication with citizens, the use of open data, and public oversight mechanisms.
“Today, effective communication is impossible without digital tools. Current trends show that in order to reach every resident, local authorities need to speak the language that people are accustomed to, whether it be social media, messengers, or online platforms,”noted UNDP national expert Sholpan Aytenova.
A strong focus has been placed on understanding the new laws on public procurement and conducting public hearings, empowering participants to hold local authorities to account through formal mechanisms.
“Effective communication between the authorities and society is, first and foremost, dialogue. People do not expect instant solutions from us. It is important for them to be heard and to be spoken to. Where there is dialogue, trust is born,”says Laura Turarova, a member of the Makanchy district maslikhat.
The seminars form part of UNDP’s broader local development programme to support the Abay and Ulytau regions — Kazakhstan’s newest administrative units. The initiative targets local disparities in access to essential services, employment opportunities, and infrastructure, while helping communities unlock their development potential in alignment with the SDGs.
By promoting civic engagement, the initiative lays the foundation for more inclusive and resilient local governance in Abay and Ulytau.
