Aktobe City's Multi-Million Tenge Urban Makeover Sparks Debate

Aktobe Allocates 331 Million Tenge for Urban Improvements Aktobe, Kazakhstan – The city of Aktobe has allocated a significant sum of 331 million tenge for the creation and maintenance of new small architectural forms (MAF) throughout the city. This represents a substantial increase from previous years, where approximately 100 million tenge was allocated annually. The contract was awarded to Kairbek Takhanov, a city council deputy and founder of the firm "Kaisar Relations." Takhanov has a history of winning similar contracts. The project includes over 200 new benches and trash cans made from composite marble, along with illuminated art installations. These will be installed in central Aktobe squares. There is some controversy surrounding the tender, which was titled "State procurement for the administration of the Astana district of Aktobe city," despite the focus on MAFs. The project also includes the creation of stelae for several residential areas and a photo zone near the train station. Takhanov commented on the project, emphasizing the focus on functionality and quality, addressing past criticism of his work's quality. The city council's decision to significantly increase funding for urban beautification projects has sparked discussion among residents.