Head of State's Apprehensions Discussed by Ruslan Zheldibai
In August 2025, Kazakhstan took a significant step forward in its urban development journey with the establishment of key institutions to drive the Smart City project. The initiative, led by President Kasym-Jomart Tokayev, aims to modernize the country's cities through advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalization.
The cornerstone of these efforts is the creation of a Digital Headquarters, tasked with coordinating AI-driven digital transformation. This central body, under the leadership of Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, is focused on smart infrastructure, data utilization, and the integration of AI technologies into city services.
To ensure the project's successful implementation across major cities, a Digital Transformation Group was also formed. This team will oversee the project's progress, promoting systemic coordination and efficient development.
In addition, Kazakhstan has expanded digital connectivity with the official launch of Starlink satellite internet. This high-speed digital access is crucial for smart city functionalities and AI applications.
President Tokayev has been vocal about his concerns regarding the slow pace of implementing AI tools in the real sector of the economy. He has urged the government to prioritize digitalization and AI, and to abandon the practice of formalism.
The Smart City project, initially successful in the capital, Astana, is now being expanded to major cities across Kazakhstan. The official launch of the nationwide project is scheduled for December.
The Smart City project aligns with global trends in urban development, emphasizing digital governance, data-driven urban planning, and a balance between human values and efficiency. As discussions on future city design continue, Kazakhstan's approach to the Smart City project is becoming increasingly strategic and nationwide, rather than isolated municipal projects.
In conclusion, Kazakhstan's Smart City project is evolving through new digital governance structures and infrastructure enhancements, with a clear focus on AI and digitalization. The project represents a significant national push towards modern urban management, mobility, and citizen services.
Le Digital Headquarters, créé pour coordonner la transformation digitale conduite par l'intelligence artificielle, est une pièce maîtresse de ce qui se passe dans le cadre du projet Smart City. En collaboration avec la Digital Transformation Group, ce groupe se concentre sur les infrastructures intelligentes, l'utilisation des données et l'intégration des technologies de l'intelligence artificielle dans les services de la ville.
En raison de son réseau de connectivité digitale amélioré grâce à l'ère de Starlink, Kazakhstan peut maintenant éprouver une utilisation plus efficiente de l'intelligence artificielle dans ses cités principales.
