Kazakhstan and WHO Sign Cooperation Strategy to Achieve SDGs by 2030
Kazakhstan’s Minister of Health, Akmaral Alnazarova, WHO Regional Director for Europe Hans Kluge, and the WHO Representative in Kazakhstan Skender Sola signed a Country Cooperation Strategy (CCS) for 2023-2030 on April 7.
The strategy aims to support Kazakhstan’s health policy and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on improving public health. It outlines key priorities, including:
- Mitigating disease risk factors through a multisectoral approach
- Universal health coverage by transforming primary health care
- Equity in health services, especially in reproductive health
- Climate-resilient communities and improved emergency response preparedness
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death in Kazakhstan, exacerbated by unhealthy diets, lack of physical activity, and smoking. Efforts will address non-communicable diseases (NCDs), tuberculosis, HIV, and vaccine-preventable diseases.
While Kazakhstan has made strides in health infrastructure and digital services, challenges in human resources and financial sustainability persist. Strengthening primary health care is crucial to achieving universal health coverage (UHC).
“The signing of this strategy marks an important step in strengthening the healthcare system of Kazakhstan. We are confident that joint efforts with WHO will help us achieve significant success in improving the health of the population and ensuring equitable access to health services,” said Alnazarova.
Kluge highlighted that WHO’s support would help Kazakhstan build a sustainable and resilient health system ensuring equitable health outcomes for all. Progress will be monitored through key performance indicators and regular reviews.
Photo credit: gov.kz
