Articles by Nagima Abuova

ASTANA — Kazakhstan marked a significant milestone in Islamic finance with the Jan. 14 launch of Central Asia and Caucasus’ first Shariah-compliant exchange-traded fund (ETF) under the International Trading System’s Shariah index, the ITSS ticker.  A roundtable in Astana on Jan. 16 explored the ETF’s impact, Islamic finance growth, global implications and prospects. The ITSS…

ASTANA—Hero’s Journey, a Kazakhstan-based gamified fitness studio, secured $6 million in funding at a $30 million valuation. In an interview with Digital Business on Jan 13, the founder, Ilyas Isatayev, discussed his journey from securing investment to breaking into the American market and preparing for future growth. Founded in 2023 and operating in Almaty and…

ASTANA — Kazakhstan faces a pivotal year as it navigates a mix of economic challenges and opportunities that could significantly shape its trajectory. Risks such as resource depletion, decaying infrastructure and inflation threaten to hinder growth, while manufacturing, agriculture and sustainable energy sectors offer avenues for progress. Erlan Karimov, writing for Economy.kz, an independent business…

ASTANA—While Kazakhstan’s economy experienced moderate growth in 2024, it also faced lingering challenges. As the country strives to build on these gains and address key issues in 2025, it is critical to acknowledge and understand the challenges the economy faces. Key drivers of growth According to an analytical article by Economy.kz, an independent business media…

ASTANA — Kazakhstan achieved solid trade growth and stabilized prices for essential goods in 2024 despite global challenges and geopolitical instability. Strategic measures, infrastructure improvements and economic diversification fueled these advancements, solidifying the country’s role as a reliable international trading partner. According to the Kazakh Ministry of Trade and Integration, the country’s index of physical…

ASTANA—The National Bank of Kazakhstan has undertaken a multi-year initiative to redesign the tenge. In 2024, the tenge secured top honors at prestigious global currency competitions for its innovative Saka Style tenge series, which features groundbreaking protective elements and designs celebrating the nation’s heritage. According to the National Bank, for the first time globally, the…

ASTANA — As winter temperatures in the capital drop to as low as -40 degrees Celsius, more people find a unique and compelling way to enjoy the cold. Winter swimming, where people briefly dip into icy water, has become a widespread practice for those seeking to challenge their physical and mental limits. Winter swimmers, often…

ASTANA—Kazakh steppe laws, rooted in justice and equality, governed social and legal relations in the Altai region, including Kazakh communities in China and Mongolia, until the mid-20th century. These laws preserved a legacy of fairness and self-governance across centuries. Origins of Kazakh legal traditions The Kazakh legal system dates back to ancient times, shaped by…

ASTANA — Kassym-Jomart Tokayev shared insights on the nation’s economic trajectory, government performance and policy priorities in an interview with Ana Tili newspaper on Jan. 3.  “The government’s task is to ensure economic growth and improve the well-being of citizens. Overall, the Cabinet of Ministers is fulfilling this task. Over the past year, there have…

ASTANA—As the year ends, The Astana Times reflects on key events in Kazakhstan’s cultural scene. From cinematic triumphs to groundbreaking exhibitions, the nation has showcased its dedication to preserving heritage and fostering creativity.  While this article provides a small glimpse, the depth and diversity of cultural endeavors this year continue to inspire and unite communities.…

ASTANA—In 2024, Kazakhstan’s healthcare system underwent significant reforms to improve accessibility, efficiency and transparency. In an interview with The Astana Times, Minister of Healthcare Akmaral Alnazarova outlined key innovations, including advancements in primary care, infrastructure modernization and domestic pharmaceutical growth, to strengthen public health services nationwide. The year has been challenging for all industries, especially…

ASTANA — The Kazakh Ministry of Tourism and Sports hosted the annual Uzdik Award ceremony on Dec. 24, recognizing the achievements of the nation’s athletes and coaches who have brought pride to Kazakhstan on the international stage. The event summarized the year’s sports accomplishments, highlighting key achievements and inspiring the younger generation to aim for…

ASTANA — For Kazakhs, sarqyt is more than a tradition; it is a cherished embodiment of generosity, hospitality and the joy of sharing. For me, sarqyt evokes fond childhood memories, recalling the excitement of waiting for my parents to return from celebrations and eagerly searching through the packets they brought home. Yet, for others, this…

ASTANA — Kazakhstan has made significant strides in reforming its water resources management system, ensuring sustainable and efficient water use amidst growing climate challenges. In 2024, the country introduced key infrastructure projects, modernized irrigation systems, and integrated advanced digital technologies to address water scarcity and promote long-term resilience. According to Premierminister.kz, the government’s efforts have…

ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s economy grew by 4.4% in 2024, driven by strategic measures to diversify the economy, attract investments and bolster domestic businesses. Government initiatives focused on expanding the non-oil sector, fostering a favorable investment climate, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Key economic indicators  According to Premierminister.kz, preliminary estimates reveal that more than…

ASTANA — Kazakhstan is advancing its digital transformation to improve public services, support innovation, accelerate economic growth, and rank among the global leaders in online services and IT development. According to Premierminister.kz, the United Nations reported that Kazakhstan ranks 24th among 193 countries in digitalization and is among the top 10 globally in online services.…

ASTANA—The Kazakh-German Center in Astana hosted the fourth annual Avant-garde of the Germans of Kazakhstan award ceremony on Dec. 13. The ceremony honored individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their fields and exemplify the achievements of the German community in Kazakhstan. The winners included Alexander Scherzer in science, Lyubov Kikolenko in art, Artur Gafner…

ASTANA—Creative Industries Alliance Qazaqstan (CIAQ) and Nazarbayev University Research and Innovation System (NURIS) hosted a panel discussion on Dec. 11 in Astana. The discussions focused on investment opportunities in Kazakhstan’s creative sector.  Entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers addressed pressing issues and explored solutions to boost the industry’s growth. Creative industries represent a dynamically growing segment of…

ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s establishment of a Permanent Representative Office at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in 2024 has deepened its global aviation ties. ICAO Council President Salvatore Sciacchitano highlighted Kazakhstan’s advancements in civil aviation, safety and environmental initiatives in an interview with Kazinform. Sciacchitano noted that his recent meeting with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev opened…

Editor’s Note: The Astana Times continues its series of articles, Exploring Kazakhstan, City by City, in the marvelous city of Aktobe. We are setting out to unveil the rich diversity of cities to bring you closer to the heart and soul of Kazakhstan. ASTANA — Aktobe, a vibrant city in western Kazakhstan, offers a unique…

ASTANA — Anel Sytdykova, a trailblazing athlete from Kazakhstan, became the first Kazakh woman to swim in Antarctica’s icy waters on Nov. 12, completing the 750-meter swim at minus 1.4 degrees Celsius in less than 19 minutes. According to Kazinform, the journey to Antarctica began on Nov. 10 after Sytdykova and her group navigated the…

ASTANA — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev met with Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha on Dec. 7 to discuss strategic partnerships and joint investments. The meeting was held as part of Tokayev’s visit to Qatar.  During their meeting, the two leaders discussed the implementation of investment projects, including banking, telecommunications, energy, agriculture…

ASTANA — Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev arrived in Qatar for a working visit to participate in the Doha Forum and discuss renewable energy and investment projects with key Qatari business leaders on Dec. 6. During his visit, Tokayev met with Mohammed Nasser Al-Hajri, Chairman of Nebras Power, and  Moutaz and Ramez Al-Khayyat, owners of Power…

ASTANA —  A sociological survey conducted by the Kazakhstan Institute for Strategic Studies (KazISS) offered insights into public sentiment about the conclusion of 2024. Despite global challenges, 66.2% of Kazakh citizens reported optimism, reflecting a favorable year personally and nationally. According to the survey results revealed by KazISS on the Dec.5 briefing, among 1,200 respondents,…

ASTANA — Nasyr Tarlabek, a 10-year-old prodigy from Kazakhstan, has made history by winning the Confédération Mondiale de l’Accordéon (CMA) World Accordion Championship, held Nov. 25-30 in Montargis, France. According to the Khabar TV channel, this is the first time a Kazakh musician has claimed the prestigious title in the competition’s 60-year history. Tarlabek competed…