The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan (MAIDD), within the framework of the implementation of the Project “Advancing Learning, Entrepreneurship and Markets in Artificial Intelligence (ALEM AI) (P513072)” (hereinafter – the Project), proposed for financing through a loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (the World Bank), announces the public disclosure of updated environmental and social documentation for the Project.
The documentation has been updated to reflect the arrangements and agreed provisions reached following negotiations between the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the World Bank on the Project, held on August 13–20, 2026.
In particular, during the negotiations the parties reviewed and agreed upon the Environmental and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP) and the Environmental and Social Code of Practice (ESCOP), reflecting the agreed environmental and social commitments under the Project. In this regard, MAIDD is presenting the updated environmental and social documentation for review by interested parties and for public consultations.
Purpose of Disclosure
This announcement and the accompanying documentation are published in accordance with the procedures of international financial institutions and the national legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, including the principles of public participation under the Aarhus Convention, with the objective of facilitating further financing of the Project.
Project Description
The Project aims to develop the startup ecosystem in Kazakhstan by expanding access to advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, developing digital skills, creating research and technology infrastructure (including equipping an AI center and a robotics laboratory), as well as supporting startups and mobilizing venture capital.
The following environmental and social documents have been prepared under the Project:
These documents define measures for managing environmental and social risks, ensuring labor rights, engaging stakeholders, and establishing a grievance redress mechanism (GRM), in accordance with the World Bank Environmental and Social Standards.
The documents are available for review:
The documents are available in the following languages:
Upon request, the materials may be provided in accessible formats.
In accordance with the Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), the Project ensures:
Comments and suggestions may be submitted:
All received comments will be reviewed and taken into account in the finalization of Project documentation.
A grievance redress mechanism (GRM) is established under the Project to ensure:
GRM contact details: info@fpip.kz, support@astanahub.com
Full name: Yerbol Akhmetov
Position: Head of the Breakthrough Technologies Development Department, Committee for Digital Assets and Breakthrough Technologies of the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development
Email: e.akhmetov@mdai.gov.kz