IsDB, Kazakhstan Launch $1.32 Billion Climate-Resilient Water Project

The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and Kazakhstan have signed an agreement to launch the first phase of the Climate-Resilient Water Resources Development Project.
The signing ceremony took place Tuesday during the 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in the Azerbaijani capital of Baku, in the presence of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. The agreement was signed by Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Nurlan Baibazarov and IsDB President Muhammad Al Jasser.
The initiative, valued at $1.32 billion, aims to enhance investment in Kazakh water infrastructure and strengthen its resilience to climate change. The project includes major infrastructure development projects and capacity-building initiatives.
The project incorporates an intensive training program for 1,100 employees in advanced water management techniques, along with providing smart climate agricultural training for 100,000 community members.
Al Jasser stated that the project demonstrates the strong partnership between the IsDB and Kazakhstan, focusing on long-term climate resilience, food security, and sustainable economic growth for the people of Kazakhstan.
He added that this project will result in 350,000 hectares of sustainably irrigated land for crop production, a 20% increase in average yields of major crops, and a 25% reduction in water loss in the irrigation system.
The project targets enhancing agricultural productivity, secure water resources for vulnerable communities, and bolster the nation's ability to adapt to climate change.