Bishkek, June 16, 2025. / Kabar /. The National Community Initiative Project (NCIP) has been launched in Kyrgyzstan — a large-scale program aimed at developing rural areas, improving infrastructure and expanding economic opportunities in the regions.
The seminar to launch the project was held by First Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce Choro Seyitov with the participation of World Bank Senior Social Development Specialist Christopher Finch, ARIS Executive Director Mars Naspekov, representatives of government agencies and heads of district administrations.
Financing and Scope
The total budget of the project is US$27 million, of which:
- $25 million is an interest-free loan from the International Development Association (IDA) for 50 years with a 10-year grace period;
- $2 million is a grant from the Early Learning Partnership (ELP) fund, managed by the World Bank.
The project will cover 40 districts of the country. In each district, one aiyl aimak will be selected, which will be provided with up to $450,000 for the implementation of social facilities - kindergartens, schools, medical institutions, as well as heating, water supply, electricity and irrigation systems.
Criteria for selecting aiyl aimaks:
high poverty level;
the largest population;
distance from the district center;
the smallest amount of transfers from the national budget.
The main goals of the project:
development of rural infrastructure resilient to climate change;
creation of jobs;
support for women, youth and vulnerable groups;
promotion of women's entrepreneurship;
improvement of access to quality services.
In addition, 15-20 rural municipalities will receive additional grants in the amount of 200-300 thousand dollars for the implementation of economic subprojects developed within the framework of the Regional Socio-Economic Development Programs.
Social mobilization and partnership
Special attention in the NCIP is given to social mobilization - the active participation of residents, especially women and youth, in the planning and implementation of projects.