Economic Growth:  USAID’s work in the economic growth sector is partially funded by the Government of Kazakhstan, under the joint Program for Economic Development.  USAID helps strengthen the budget and public sector audit processes by improving monetary and competition policies supports Kazakhstan’s accession to the WTO, works on reducing trade barriers relating to transport, transit, border crossing, and customs clearance, and facilitates access of businesses to market information within and beyond Central Asia.  Energy sector assistance is helping establish a transparent, competitive energy market, increase electricity trade, and introduce market-based solutions for disputes on hydroelectricity facilities and reservoirs.  To improve operating environment for businesses, USAID helps reduce regulatory and administrative constraints for SMEs through expert advice and dialog between the government and the private sector. By familiarizing microfinance institutions with the best practices in the sector, USAID aims to expand access to credit. USAID also provides training and consulting to SMEs. Key contractors, grantees: Bearing Point, AECOM, ACDI/VOCA, Pragma Corporation.

Investing in People:  USAID’s primary healthcare program is helping Kazakhstan to reform its health system to increase access to high quality primary healthcare services.  This program focuses on improving the quality of tuberculosis (TB), maternal, child, and reproductive health services.  Technical and other assistance support the country’s endeavors to control infectious diseases like TB, including efforts to reduce the spread of multi-drug resistant forms.  USAID also helps the Government build capacity to respond to highly-pathogenic avian influenza.  Principal contractors and grantees are: Abt Associates; Development Alternatives, Inc. (DAI); and KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation.

Governing Justly and Democratically:  USAID's programs assist the Kazakh Government and civil society to develop democratic systems and practices in the country.  Programs cultivate local civic activism and coalition building among civil society and media organizations. USAID also supports their dialogue with the Government of Kazakhstan on democratic issues including decision-making processes, political pluralism, service delivery, policy and judicial reform, press freedom, and protection of human rights.  Business and professional association leaders receive opportunities for practical training in the United States.  Principal contractors/grantees: Chemonics, Counterpart, Freedom House, International Center for Non-Profit Law, International Republic Institute, Internews, National Democratic Institute, and World Learning.

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