A new chapter is unfolding in efforts to revive one of the world’s most fragile ecosystems. Kazakhstan, together with the World Health Organization, has unveiled a 2026-2029 roadmap aimed at improving health and quality of life in the Aral Sea region.

The announcement came from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who noted that the International Fund for Saving the Aral Sea (IFAS) remains the only regional platform uniting Central Asian countries to tackle water and environmental challenges, The Caspian Post reports via Kazakh media.

Tokayev highlighted IFAS as a key driver in mobilizing international support and implementing joint initiatives to restore the Aral Sea basin. Under Kazakhstan’s leadership, cooperation across the region has expanded significantly - from water-energy coordination to improved financing mechanisms and stronger institutional roles.

The Fund has also stepped up its global engagement, participating in major environmental forums such as:

One Water Summit

UN Environment Assembly seventh session

COP29

COP30

Efforts to stabilize the region are already extensive. More than 30 regional projects are currently in progress with international partners, backed by funding exceeding $2 billion. These initiatives focus on sustainable development, environmental recovery, and water resource management across Central Asia.

At the heart of the new roadmap is a shift toward human well-being. The Kazakhstan-WHO plan is expected to:

Improve public health systems in affected areas

Address environmental health risks

Enhance living conditions for communities around the Aral Sea

With coordinated action, strong international backing, and a clear roadmap, the region is moving beyond crisis management - toward long-term recovery and resilience.