Madrid, Spain – 07 of May 2025

• This joint communique aims to protect and model one of Kazakhstan’s most strategic groundwater reserves.
• Xcalibur Smart Mapping’s geospatial technologies and airborne geophysics enable data-driven groundwater management and resilience.

Xcalibur Smart Mapping has signed a joint communique with the Ministry of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan to carry out geological and hydrogeological research at Kokzhide groundwater deposit in Western Kazakhstan. The aim is to determine the nature of groundwater pollution at the field and to perform other necessary studies, such as electromagnetic surveys for hydrogeological modelling of the deposit. The agreement was formalised by N.Zh. Aldamzharov, Vice-Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and Víctor González, Vice-President of Country Mapping at Xcalibur Smart Mapping.

The joint communique was signed at the meeting of the Coordination Council of Partners for Water Sector Development of the Republic of Kazakhstan, held in Astana, and confirmed the mutual commitment of both parties to deepen partnerships and develop joint initiatives in this strategic sector.

The implementation of projects under this framework will enable the construction of a comprehensive hydrogeological model, improve aquifer monitoring, and help prevent the depletion and pollution of groundwater resources. These efforts will contribute to the sustainable and rational use of underground water sources in Kazakhstan.

«The issue of ensuring access to drinking water in the western regions remains under the special oversight of the Ministry. However, for the effective and high-quality implementation of the project, it is essential to carry out a comprehensive study of the ‘Kokzhide’ deposit, mitigate the risk of water contamination, and prevent any adverse impact on the local ecosystem. At present, this constitutes a key priority,» said N.Zh. Aldamzharov.

“The Kokzhide groundwater deposit is one of the largest and most strategically important underground freshwater sources in Western Kazakhstan. It plays a vital role in supplying water to the region’s population, industry, and agriculture, making its sustainable management crucial for long-term water security. It is a great honor for Xcalibur Smart Mapping to contribute to such a critical project, supporting Kazakhstan’s efforts in sustainable water resource management through advanced geophysical technologies,” said Víctor González.

In recent years, the Kokzhide deposit has gained significance in Kazakhstan’s broader water security strategy, due to the increasing water demand driven by climate change and economic development. Kokzhide is crucial not only as a natural resource but also as an example of how to integrate environmental protection, technological innovation, and sustainable groundwater management.

Kazakhstan, with unevenly distributed water resources, faces challenges in ensuring sustainable access to groundwater due to climate change and rising industrial demand. Advanced mapping techniques are essential for ensuring long-term water resilience, supporting agriculture, urban planning, and ecosystem conservation.

This Communique reflects a shared commitment to scientific collaboration and sustainable resource management. Through the use of airborne geophysics and state-of-the-art geospatial tools, both parties aim to improve the understanding of Kazakhstan’s groundwater systems. The agreement lays the foundation for data-driven policymaking and the responsible use of the country’s groundwater resources.