Following the successful performances of Kazakhstan’s Paralympians at the Games in Paris, the National Paralympic Committee has set ambitious goals for the continued development of the Paralympic movement. Kairat Boranbayev, President of the National Paralympic Committee of Kazakhstan, shared key plans for advancing Paralympic sports in the country, expanding infrastructure, and supporting young athletes.
The Paralympic Games in Paris were a major milestone for Kazakhstan. How do you think this success will impact the further development of the Paralympic movement in our country? Kairat Boranbayev:
The success in Paris showed that our athletes are capable of great achievements, and this will undoubtedly give us new momentum for further developing Paralympic sports in Kazakhstan. We didn’t just bring home nine medals — it was a sign that our training system is working, and we need to expand its capabilities. This success inspires not only us but also young athletes, who see that the path to victory is possible. Now our task is to use this momentum to develop infrastructure, improve training conditions, and engage new generations in sports.
What specific steps is the National Paralympic Committee taking to develop Paralympic sports infrastructure in Kazakhstan?
Kairat Boranbayev:
We understand that without modern sports infrastructure, it’s hard to expect significant results. That’s why one of our key projects is the construction of a new Paralympic center in Astana. This center will be dedicated to training athletes in summer sports, and its creation will be an important step for the further development of the Paralympic movement. Additionally, we plan to focus more on winter sports. We’re planning to renovate the inclusive ice rink “Tarlan.” This project is crucial for preparing for the Winter Paralympic Games. We’re also considering the possibility of building a curling center, which will serve both Paralympians and able-bodied athletes. This will allow us to prepare athletes for the Winter Games at the highest level.
What sports do you plan to develop in the coming years, and what is being done to popularize them?
Kairat Boranbayev:
We are already seeing great success in sports like judo and powerlifting, which have become traditional for our country. But we are not stopping there. We are actively developing disciplines such as sitting volleyball, shooting, and table tennis. These sports require time and investment, but we already have certain achievements. For example, for the first time at the Paralympic Games in Paris, we won a medal in shooting. This is a new discipline for Kazakhstan, and we plan to continue developing it. We are also continuing our cooperation with international federations so that our athletes can participate in more international tournaments.
What are your plans for attracting youth to Paralympic sports?
Kairat Boranbayev:
Attracting youth is one of our priorities. We are launching various programs for children with disabilities, such as youth competitions like the Regional National Inclusive Games “Zhuldizai,” which will take place in October. We expect up to 500 children from across Kazakhstan to participate. These competitions not only help to identify talent but also spark an interest in sports among children. We are also developing programs that help parents understand how sports can improve the quality of life for their children. It is important for young people to see that sports are not only an opportunity for physical development but also a path to social integration.
What challenges exist in the development of Paralympic sports in Kazakhstan?
Kairat Boranbayev:
Of course, there are certain challenges related to infrastructure and the accessibility of sports facilities for people with disabilities. These are not just physical barriers but also a lack of specialized conditions, such as accessible changing rooms, training halls, and other infrastructure elements. We are already working with federations to improve the situation and create all the necessary conditions for athletes with disabilities. However, this takes time, and we understand that every improvement is a step forward.
What role do sponsors and government support play in the development of Paralympic sports?
Kairat Boranbayev:
Government support is the foundation of Paralympic sports development in Kazakhstan. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Sports Committee — they all actively participate in our initiatives. We must also not underestimate the role of private sponsors, who help fund specific projects, including purchasing sports equipment, prosthetics, and wheelchairs for our athletes. Sponsors and the government together create the necessary conditions for the successful preparation of our athletes, and we are grateful to them for that.
How do you see the future of the Paralympic movement in Kazakhstan in a few years? What are your main expectations? Kairat Boranbayev:
I see a very bright future for the Paralympic movement in Kazakhstan. We are laying a solid foundation for further growth: improving infrastructure, attracting youth, and there is increasing attention to our athletes from both society and the government. In a few years, I hope to see even more Kazakhstanis at the Paralympic Games, ready to compete for medals. But the most important thing is not just sporting achievements. We aim for people with disabilities to feel like equal members of society, and for sports to become not only a means of self-expression but also social integration. I am confident that this process has already started, and its development will only accelerate.
This interview is kindly shared by NPC Kazakhstan.