[06.01.2025]

2024: A Turning Point in Kazakhstan’s Philanthropic History

The year 2024 marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of philanthropy in Kazakhstan. Despite the country’s drop in the World Giving Index—from 107th to 113th place—Kazakhstan demonstrated the growing strength of private and public charitable initiatives. This year proved that philanthropy can transform lives, inspire generosity, and serve as a vital support system during times of crisis.

Halyk Charitable Fund: A New Standard of Support

The Halyk Charitable Fund, led by Timur Kulibayev and Dinara Kulibayeva, continued to set the benchmark for philanthropy in Kazakhstan. Since its founding, the Fund has allocated over 85 billion tenge toward social and educational projects. In 2024 alone, it provided a record 35.5 billion tenge in aid—31 billion of which was directed to flood-affected regions including Kulsary, Atyrau, Aktobe, West Kazakhstan, and Kostanay.

This support went far beyond financial aid—it became a symbol of recovery and resilience. Notable examples include the construction of 400 apartments in Astana for families in critical situations and the opening of a kindergarten for 280 children in Auliekol following the devastating 2022 fires.

Innovative Regional Projects

The Fund launched several large-scale initiatives focused on long-term, sustainable development:

  • Beineu grain terminal – a key project for the region’s agricultural sector
  • Desalination systems – providing clean water to over 25,000 residents in Akshukur and Saina Shapagatov
  • School modernization – upgrading three schools in the Mangystau region to improve access to quality education

Each project is designed to address systemic challenges and deliver lasting impact.

Education and Sports: Investing in the Future

The Halyk Charitable Fund continues to invest in youth through education and sports:

  • Miras School Grants – provided access to world-class education for students from across Kazakhstan
  • AUYL SPORT – engaged over 12,000 children from 200 rural settlements, promoting physical activity and community development
  • AuylFootball – united more than 4,000 young footballers, nurturing talent in rural areas

National Recognition

In June 2024, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev honored philanthropists for their contributions to social development, including Timur Kulibayev. The Halyk Charitable Fund received several prestigious awards:

  • “Kayyrymdylyk Ushin” Medal from the Ministry of Culture and Information
  • “Patron of the Year” for flood relief and housing construction
  • “Patron of the Year” for regional development projects in Mangystau

Charity as a Strategic Force

In 2024, charity in Kazakhstan evolved from isolated acts of kindness into a strategic tool for national development. The Halyk Charitable Fund’s systemic approach and measurable results have inspired other organizations and influenced public policy.

“The Halyk Foundation always strives not only to help, but to create platforms for sustainable development. I believe the Fund can be proud of its role in building a strong and harmonious society,” said Saginbek Shunkeev, Director of the Halyk Charitable Fund.

This year marked the beginning of a new era—where philanthropy is not just support, but a cornerstone of Kazakhstan’s unity and progress.