Localization of MDGs in South Kazakhstan

1. Localization of MDGs in South Kazakhstan By Alma Nurshaikhova, Programme Coordinator HD Unit UNDP Kazakhstan

2. Description of the Problem • The 2005 MDGR revealed huge regional differences in the progress towards MDGs • Need for actions at local level to foster progress towards MDGs • South Kazakhstan oblast is amongst regions lagging behind • Adoption of National Territorial Development Strategy in 2006 – a window of opportunity to reflect MDGs in local development strategies

3. Objectives • Support the drafting of SKO Territorial Development Strategy (2007-2015) • Involve all stakeholders into the identification of local needs and drafting the strategy • Build permanent partnerships between the local government, civil society and business for effective implementation of the strategy.

4. Strategy • Building partnerships • Fostering participatory approach • Ensuring local ownership • Awareness raising

5. Innovative Aspects • Incorporation of MDGs into existing development strategies • Orientation towards local needs • Participatory approach • Results based strategic planning

6. Activities • Baseline assessment, adaptation of MDGs, recommendations • Setting up of Coordination Committee • Training for local government and CSOs on Localization of MDGs (planned) • Final report on Localization of MDGs in SKO

7. Partnerships • Coordination Committee consists of local government, representative body, NGOs, business associations and international donors • Recommendations to SKO Development Strategy will include building partnerships with all stakeholders and division of responsibilities • Training on building partnerships between local administration and NGOs

8. Results Up to now: • Local government and wider community sensitized on MDGs and the need for MDGs’ localization • Coordination Committee set up • Baseline assessment and preliminary recommendations prepared • Wider community involved into baseline assessment and MDGs adaptation

9. Results Planned: • Training for local authorities on localization of MDGs conducted • Costing of MDGs conducted • Report on SKO experience prepared and proposed for replication in other regions • Local capacity building for effective and inclusive implementation of SKO Development Strategy

10. Problems Encountered • Weak local capacities and reluctance of local authorities to admit the existence of social problems • Weak capacity of the national research institution • A sudden outbreak of HIV/AIDS, which led to the change of local government composition and shift of priorities towards HIV/AIDS • Small project budget – 40,000 USD

11. Sustainability • SKO Development Strategy is a priority strategy of the oblast’s development till 2015 • It will be financed from local budget • The SKO experience will be presented to the Ministry of Economy for its possible replication in other regions • UNDP will provide assistance to the Strategy’s implementation in terms of capacity building

12. Replicability in Other Country Context • The final report on SKO experience: • Step-by-step description of the whole process • Methodology for baseline study and strategic planning • SKO development analysis and recommendation • Requirements for replication: • Local government’s interest and support from central government • Good understanding of MDGs