Protecting nature requires more than commitment - it requires effective systems that ensure resources are managed transparently, efficiently, and sustainably. Recognizing this, the UNDP Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) in Kyrgyzstan supported the Forest Service under the Ministry of Emergency Situation of the Kyrgyz Republic in modernizing its Automated Information System "Forest Management" (AIS), helping to strengthen financial administration and digital service delivery across the forestry sector.

What began as a system used primarily to process lease payments has evolved into a comprehensive digital platform covering a much wider range of forestry services.

The upgraded system enables the generation of payments for various types of services through the state payment gateway. The payment process for users has been significantly simplified through the introduction of mechanisms for generating unique payment references and QR codes. The modernization also introduced automated user notification functions regarding upcoming payment deadlines, thus facilitating that payments are made on time. The enhancement of the system’s integration capabilities established interoperability with government payment instruments and other information systems, improving data consistency, increasing the efficiency of payment information processing, and expanding the number of payment channels for forestry users. The new reporting module gives forest authorities a clear, detailed picture of revenues— strengthening transparency, traceability and accountability of financial data, thus enhancing the Forest Service's ability to analyze financial data and make informed decisions. 

The AIS modernization was implemented through a full deployment cycle, encompassing system development, testing, pilot operation, staff training, and the transition to full-scale operational use.

The results demonstrate the value of investing in digital public finance solutions. The 27% increase of revenues administered through the system within 1 year of pilot operation—from KGS 52.8 million in 2024 to KGS 66.9 million in 2025 reflects both the improved efficiency in payment administration and expanding coverage of services processed digitally.

Why does this matter? Every Som (KGS) collected transparently and efficiently is a Som (KGS) that can be reinvested in protecting Kyrgyzstan's forests and the biodiversity they sustain. By turning everyday transactions into a reliable, traceable source of finance, this initiative shows how digital innovation can directly strengthen the financial sustainability of the forest sector — a concrete example of biodiversity finance delivering results on the ground.

About BIOFIN

BIOFIN, a global initiative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), aims to address the significant challenge of financing biodiversity conservation and provides technical support to countries to develop and implement comprehensive strategies for biodiversity finance.

The implementation of BIOFIN in Kyrgyzstan is provided with financial support from the European Union and the Governments of Germany, Switzerland and UK.