Astana hosted the Forum of Rural Akims organized by the «AMANAT» party. Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan Nurzhan Nurzhigitov took part in the second panel session titled “Agricultural Development Through the Rational Use of Natural Resources.” More than 300 rural akims participated in the discussions.
The Ministry presented a comprehensive package of measures aimed at improving the efficiency of water use in agriculture. The new approaches are based on the updated Water Code adopted this year.
Control over unauthorized water use and compliance with restrictions in water protection zones has been strengthened. Basin inspections have been granted supervisory powers, enabling them to respond promptly to violations.
The institution of irrigation condominium has been legally introduced. This mechanism ensures the proper condition of irrigation and drainage networks and reduces farmers’ expenses for repairs and reconstruction. A new norm also allows the construction of reservoirs of up to 2 million cubic meters for storing meltwater, rainwater, and floodwater for agricultural needs.
To stimulate the adoption of water-saving technologies, subsidy mechanisms have been revised. The reimbursement rate for drilling wells and purchasing water-saving equipment has increased from 50% to 80%. Differentiated water subsidies have been introduced, and their amount now directly depends on the use of modern irrigation systems.
The republican budget for 2026–2028 allocates more than 214 billion KZT for investment subsidies and an additional 13.5 billion KZT for subsidizing the cost of irrigation water.
According to Minister Nurzhan Nurzhigitov, a comprehensive and systemic approach to the water sector will ensure stable water supply and sustainable growth of the agricultural sector. He emphasized the importance of effective coordination at the local level, meeting deadlines, and the targeted use of allocated funds.
During the session, representatives of ministries answered questions from rural akims regarding the construction of new reservoirs, rehabilitation of canals and collectors, supply of irrigation water, implementation of pilot projects, and support for water-saving technologies.