Semey Offers 1.5 Million Tenge for Urban Residents to Relocate to Villages

Authorities in Semey have launched a new initiative aimed at encouraging city dwellers to move to remote rural settlements. The program offers substantial financial and material support to families willing to exchange urban life for the countryside.

Qualifying families can receive up to 1.5 million tenge as an initial payment. The support package is designed to help them establish a new life, with options including starting a business or engaging in livestock farming. Entrepreneurs participating in the program are eligible for grants and preferential loans with an annual interest rate of 6% and repayment terms of up to 10 years.

"We invite families with school-age children," said Yerkebulan Kenesbekuly, the akim (head) of Medeu rural district in the Abai region. "We will provide housing, ten cows, and one horse. We will also ensure permanent employment."

The initiative comes as a response to demographic challenges in rural areas. Nurlan Nazarkhanov, akim of Shugylbai rural district in Kokpektinsky district, highlighted the significance of new arrivals: "Land resources are available. We will provide necessary support to those willing to work. Last year, two families moved to us. This was an event, as there had been no new residents for the past 10 years."

Currently, over 600,000 people reside in the Abai region, with only 222,000 living in rural areas. Officials see significant potential for growth and aim not just to maintain but increase the rural population by making villages attractive for relocation.

"It is necessary to enhance the development potential of villages, improve the quality of life for rural residents, and modernize settlements," stated Berik Uali, the akim of Abai region. "The tasks are large-scale, but we have the resources and a common desire for results."

The project is scheduled to run until 2028. Its broader goals include strengthening the rural economy and creating new jobs. District akims have been tasked with ensuring the practical implementation of this initiative on the ground.