Menu
Since January 2024, Kazakhstan has chaired the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS). Astana's objective is clear: to strengthen partnerships with Central Asian states and international organizations to tackle the challenges posed by this ecological crisis. Kazakhstan is sparing no effort to mobilize its neighbors - Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan - in this common struggle. Together, they have set up a vast “hydrogeological forecasting” program to monitor and measure water flows and consumption in all these nations. The aim of this collaboration is to assess the water needs of the various nations, and to redirect some of the flows to the Aral Sea.
This hydrogeological forecasting program is essential for water resource management. By carefully monitoring rivers, countries can adapt their irrigation and water use strategies to maximize efficiency and minimize losses. This scientific and coordinated approach enables informed decisions to be made, and ensures that every drop of water is used optimally.
The initial results of the “Oasis” project are very encouraging. According to specialists, the survival rate of planted trees has reached 78%, a promising figure that exceeds initial expectations. This success is attributed to appropriate planting techniques and a thorough understanding of local conditions. IFAS Executive Director Serikaliy Mukataev stressed the importance of USAID's support in mitigating the impacts of this formidable desert, which he describes as “the world's youngest”. Mukataev noted that only half of the 2.2 million hectares of the former Aral seabed are suitable for planting, making the Oasis project crucial to the environmental improvement of the region.
Alongside these reforestation efforts, Kazakhstan and its partners are also working to strengthen regional water resource management institutions. In collaboration with the World Bank's water-energy program, they are setting up structures and systems for more efficient and sustainable water management. This integrated approach makes it possible to coordinate efforts across the region, optimize the use of available resources and ensure that the actions undertaken are sustainable in the long term.
The rebirth of the Aral Sea does not rest solely on the shoulders of Kazakhstan and the United States. It requires sustained regionaland international cooperation. Central Asian states, international institutions and NGOs are joining forces to overcome the colossal challenges posed by this ecological crisis. By combining better management of the region's water resources with a policy of reforestation to stem the advance of the desert, they hope to breathe new life into the Aral Sea.
The story of the Aral Sea is a valuable lesson in the consequences of unsustainable exploitation of natural resources. However, it is also a testament to the human capacity to repair and restore. The partnership between Kazakhstan and the United States, supported by regional and international efforts, shows that it is possible to reverse the trend and breathe new life into once devastated ecosystems.
The road to full restoration of the Aral Sea is still long and full of obstacles. Nevertheless, the progress made to date is encouraging and shows that solutions do exist. By keeping up the momentum, involving more partners and applying sustainable management practices, it is possible to transform this symbol of ecological catastrophe into an inspiring example of resilience and renewal.
.webp)
