Inside Kazakhstan’s Push to Become a Regional AI Centre

Kazakhstan’s government has declared 2026 as the “Year of Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence,” aiming to make the country a regional leader in artificial intelligence. This goal is part of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s modernization agenda, which seeks to improve public services, attract investment, and diversify the economy beyond its reliance on raw materials.

The government has introduced various initiatives to promote AI literacy, digitalize healthcare and public services, and create a startup ecosystem. For example, the Astana Hub, the largest innovation cluster in Central Asia, has been instrumental in developing Kazakhstan’s first unicorn company, Higgsfield, a video-generating program valued at over $1 billion. The hub’s incubator program helps startups develop IT products and sell them to other markets, with residents paying zero tax.

However, experts warn that the development of AI also raises concerns about data protection, accountability, and transparency. These issues are particularly relevant in Kazakhstan, where the government has been criticized for its human rights record. The Institute of Smart Systems and Artificial Intelligence at Nazarbayev University is working to address these concerns by developing a local answer to ChatGPT, called MagniSoz, which works with text and audio in 11 languages.

Kazakhstan’s AI ambitions are not without precedent. Other countries, such as China, have made significant investments in AI research and development. However, Kazakhstan’s unique geography, situated between Europe and Asia, makes it an attractive location for companies seeking to tap into both western innovation and eastern expertise.

The government’s decision to create a Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development is a positive step towards ensuring the responsible development of AI. The approved action plan through 2029 includes promoting AI literacy in schools and universities, digitalizing healthcare and public services, and developing skills and startups.

One such initiative is the Tomorrow School program at Astana Hub, which provides free training to students from various backgrounds. Valeria Tio, the hub’s managing director, believes that this program can act as a “real social elevator” for those looking to change their profession. However, there are also concerns about the potential impact on human rights and the environment.

As Kazakhstan accelerates its AI development, it must carefully consider these implications to ensure that its ambitions do not come at the cost of its people and planet. The regional AI centre that Kazakhstan aspires to become will require a delicate balance between technological advancements and social responsibility. By prioritizing data protection, local culture, and human rights, the country can avoid the pitfalls of other AI-driven initiatives while still reaping the benefits of this rapidly evolving field.

The government must engage with the public on these complex issues to ensure that its AI program is driven by a commitment to creating a more equitable and sustainable future for all its citizens. As Kazakhstan continues to invest in its AI ecosystem, it must remain vigilant about the potential risks and consequences of this rapidly evolving field.