President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev joined volunteers and eco-activists in planting the sacred turanga tree at the Botanical Garden in Astana, infotаbigаt.kz reports.
The event took place as part of the nationwide environmental campaign “Taza Qazaqstan. Astana – a Model of Cleanliness and Order”.
Photo by Akorda
The turanga is revered in Kazakh culture as a sacred tree symbolizing endurance, longevity, and vitality. It can draw moisture from depths of up to 15 meters and survive in extreme steppe conditions. During the famine of the 1930s, the turanga saved lives — its bark and roots were used for food, while its hollows served as natural storage spaces that protected supplies from insects and spoilage. Today, the tree is listed in Kazakhstan’s Red Book and is protected as part of the nation’s natural and historical heritage.
Environmental Mission
During the event, 150 trees were planted in the Botanical Garden, including oaks, apple trees, and turangas. Environmental experts note that the turanga helps strengthen soil, prevent desertification, and promote biodiversity.
According to the Astana city administration, the large-scale clean-up campaign covered over 20,000 courtyards, improved more than 100 parks and squares, restored 84 historical and cultural sites, and removed around 200 tons of waste.
In addition, clean-up activities were carried out at 200 social facilities, including schools, kindergartens, hospitals, and sports centers.