Kazakhstan revives togyzkumalak through historic cultural partnership
A new partnership aims to bring togyzkumalak, a traditional Kazakh intellectual game, to more people across the country. The World Togyzkumalak Federation and Kazakhstan’s Council of Veterans have signed a cooperation agreement to promote the game through competitions, training, and public events. Both sides highlighted how the game supports education for young people while also improving the well-being of older adults. The memorandum was signed by Alikhan Baimenov, President of the World Togyzkumalak Federation, and Abilgazy Kusainov, Chairman of Kazakhstan’s Council of Veterans. They agreed to organise joint tournaments, seminars, and workshops to raise awareness of the game. Kusainov also noted that veterans are eager to help preserve and promote Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage through togyzkumalak.
The game, which challenges both the mind and fine motor skills, has already gained popularity. Over 200,000 people in Kazakhstan play it regularly, and professional leagues exist in more than 50 countries. Baimenov pointed out that senior activity centres have seen positive health effects among older players, reinforcing the game’s benefits beyond entertainment. To mark the agreement, representatives from both organisations played an inaugural match of *togyzkumalak* at the meeting’s close. The session underscored the game’s role in fostering mental sharpness and social connection across generations.
The partnership will focus on expanding togyzkumalak through structured events and outreach. With around 80,000 veterans in Kazakhstan, the initiative aims to engage them in cultural preservation while encouraging wider participation. The agreement sets a foundation for future collaborations between the two organisations.
