Kazakhstan AI Digitalization Strategy 2026: A Vision to Leapfrog into the Tech Elite

Can a resource-rich giant pivot to a digital-first economy in just three years? President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev thinks so. As of January 14, 2026, Kazakhstan has officially entered its 'Year of Development of Digitalization and AI,' a bold initiative to transform the Central Asian nation into a digital power by the end of the decade.

The Kazakhstan AI Digitalization Strategy 2026 Roadmap

The administration isn't just talking; they're building. Last year, the government established the Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development and signed a landmark AI law. On the hardware side, Astana has secured two powerful supercomputers, Alem.Cloud and Al-Farabium, to fuel domestic innovation.

Educational initiatives are also scaling fast. More than 650,000 students have already completed the 'AI-Sana' program. The goal is to ensure the next generation is 'AI-ready' as the technology reshapes public administration, medicine, and the economy.

Challenges on the Path to 'Full Digitization'

Despite the momentum, global rankings suggest a steep climb ahead. In the 2025 IMD World Digital Competitiveness Ranking, Kazakhstan sits at 39th place. To match the top 25 nations, Astana must address significant infrastructure gaps.

• Connectivity: While internet access is at 93%, rural areas still lag behind the 100% target.
• Urban-Rural Divide: Ensuring digital services reach small towns in West Kazakhstan and Kyzylorda.
• Middle-Class Stagnation: A recent World Bank report warns that stagnating growth could threaten long-term innovation hubs like Alatau City.