The UNDP project "The Aral Seashore Rehabilitation and Capacity- Building Program" started it's operations in the Kyzylorda oblast in 1995. Since that time the project had been evaluated and entered in 1999 into the new phase of implementation process. The evaluated project has the title the "Aral Sea Region Development and Humanitarian Assistance Program". 

The Aral Sea Project is being operated in the Kyzylorda Oblast (Kazakhstan): Kyzylorda city, Kazalinsk & Aralsk rayon's. The project work is based on the 3 Project Support Centers (PSC): the Kyzylorda PSC, the Kazalinsk PSC,  the Aralsk PSC. Computers, modern communication network, and vehicles equip all PSCs. The local staff, International and National United Nations Volunteers (UNVs) (16 persons) are working at the Project Support Centers.

Project implementation framework includes three Programs:

• Program on Small Business Development;
• Program on Water  Resources Management;
• Program on Humanitarian Assistance and Strengthening Capacity.

Small Business Development Program  is being focused on crediting activity. For the present time the Project has Micro-credit activity in the Aral Sea Region (Aralsk & Kazalinsk rayon's). Micro - credits allows to local people not having access to bank system to be credited in order to provide self -employment for themselves. Project's Micro - credit fund is not so large as it would desired, and Project Management is seeking for additional crediting funds. 

Water Resources Management Program  is being targeted on institutional development in water management with involvement local officials and community based NGOs as a Water Users Associations. Project working on establishment and registration of Water Users Associations.  15 "Water" NGOs had been established with the assistance of the project staff in the Aral Sea Region by September, 1999. These NGOs attracted as members the habitants of the biggest 15 remote villages in the Aralsk & the Kazalinsk rayon's. More information click here.