On August 20, 2025, a large-scale city cleanup event took place in Shymkent, organized as part of the "Taza Kazakhstan" program. This event spanned several districts of the metropolis and brought together residents, government employees, youth, and volunteers. The event was a continuation of the national initiative to foster environmental awareness and raise awareness of cleanliness and urban improvement.

One of the main sites of the cleanup day was the Karatau district, where cleanup work took place in the Nurtas microdistrict at the intersection of Kenzharyk and Kulager streets. About thirty people gathered there, along with six pieces of specialized equipment. Together, the participants cleared the streets of household trash, dry branches, and construction debris, preparing the area for further improvements.

According to Alibek Kaldybekov, Chief Specialist of the Karatau District Akim's Office, the campaign has a much broader meaning than a simple cleanup. It instills in residents a sense of personal responsibility for cleanliness and creates the conditions for fostering environmental awareness. "'Taza Kazakhstan' is not a one-time event, but a long-term initiative that lays the foundation for changing public attitudes toward the environment. It's especially important that young people actively participate in such campaigns. They see this as an example and begin to perceive caring for the city as a norm, not an exception," he noted.

The cleanup day featured lively interactions between residents and government officials. For many residents, participating in the event was an opportunity to contribute to improving their neighborhood, meet their neighbors, and experience community cohesion. Events like these demonstrate that environmental issues aren't an abstract issue, but a part of everyday life, where clean streets directly impact quality of life and health.

The "Taza Kazakhstan" program has been running for several years now, expanding to new areas each time. It has become a tradition in Shymkent: cleanups, restoration of green spaces, and cleaning of ditches and public gardens are carried out in various districts of the city. Last year, for example, a large-scale cleanup event was held in the Abay and Enbekshy districts, with over a thousand participants. Tens of tons of trash were collected and public spaces were tidied up.

Even earlier, in the spring of 2023, the campaign focused on cleaning riverbeds and parks. Shymkent residents, working with municipal services, cleaned green spaces, making them comfortable for walking and recreation. Many recall that this campaign became a turning point: the city saw a noticeable increase in interest in environmental issues and a more active public participation in city improvement programs.

Looking even further back in history, the first national "Taza Kazakhstan" campaign took place in 2019. Back then, mass cleanups were organized across the country on a single day. This was especially relevant for Shymkent, as the city, with a population of over one million, desperately needs regular cleanup. In 2020, despite pandemic-related restrictions, the tradition continued—residents independently organized small, localized cleanups in courtyards and public spaces.

What makes this cleanup event unique is its more targeted nature: focusing on specific neighborhoods, where residents are directly involved. This helps people feel responsible for their homes, streets, and neighborhoods. This approach leads to more sustainable results—cleanliness lasts longer, and residents become more committed to maintaining order.

It's worth noting that not only activists and volunteers but also government employees are participating in the campaign. This sends an important signal to society: the government and citizens are on the same page, working toward a common goal. When officials join residents in the cleanup, it builds trust and demonstrates that caring for the city is a shared responsibility.

Today, Shymkent is a metropolis with a rapidly growing population, and the environmental situation here requires constant attention. The accumulation of household waste, air pollution, and the loss of green spaces all pose health risks to city residents. This is why initiatives like these are important not only as one-off initiatives but also as part of a long-term development strategy for the city.

Comparing the August 20th cleanup day with previous years, one can see a growing level of public engagement. Residents increasingly come not out of coercion, but on their own initiative. For many, it's an opportunity to spend quality time with family and friends and instill in children a respect for nature. Thus, "Taza Kazakhstan" is gradually becoming a social movement that unites different generations and social groups.

The August 20th protest once again confirmed that keeping the city clean is not just the work of public utilities, but everyone's responsibility. Thanks to our joint efforts, Shymkent is becoming cleaner, more comfortable, and more attractive. But even more importantly, along with clean streets, a new culture is being formed—a culture of respect for the environment that will remain with city residents for a long time.

Ultimately, the recent Cleanup Day can be considered a successful step in developing environmental awareness among Shymkent residents. It demonstrated that the joint efforts of residents, authorities, and volunteers yield tangible results. If such events continue on a regular basis, Shymkent could well become a model for other cities across the country in how to work together to create a clean and safe living environment.