In a recent announcement by Roman Vassilenko, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs in Kazakhstan, the nation revealed plans for an extraordinary international endeavor: the reintroduction of Przhevalsky horses into its national nature reserve in the Kostanay region, “Altyn Dala.” This initiative aims to bring 40 Przhevalsky horses from Europe to Kazakhstan within five years, bolstered by a collaboration between various organizations in both Kazakhstan and Europe.
The project, officially launched with a memorandum signed between the Forestry and Animal Peace Committee of the Ministry of Ecology of Kazakhstan and the Prague Zoo in April 2023, signifies a significant step towards biodiversity conservation.
The reintroduction effort, reminiscent of a successful similar project in Mongolia, traces its roots back to the late 19th century when the first Przhevalsky horses were brought to Europe. Now, nearly a century later, their descendants are poised to return to their ancestral homeland.
Funding for the project is primarily provided by the Czech government, demonstrating a strong commitment to conservation efforts. Scheduled to commence in June, the transportation of these majestic creatures will involve two CASA C-295 cargo planes operated by the Czech Air Force.
As Kazakhstan prepares to welcome back these iconic symbols of Central Asia’s wilderness, Vassilenko assures full support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, highlighting the significance of this noble endeavour for both ecological preservation and international collaboration.
by Gareth Stamp
