From November 1 to 14, 2025, Institute staff members A.D. Arepova, K.A. Nygyimetullin, and M.T. Moryakova conducted a research trip to the city of Aktobe as part of the program-targeted funded project «Preparation and Publication of a Series of Memoirs by Eyewitnesses of the 1931–1933 Mass Famine in Kazakhstan and Their Descendants»
The main purpose of the trip was to collect, systematize, and introduce into scholarly circulation oral-historical testimonies of people who witnessed the famine in this region, as well as descendants whose ancestors experienced the tragedy of those years. Work was carried out to supplement the volume on Aktobe Region being prepared within the framework of the project.
During the trip, interviews were conducted with the well-known Kazakh journalist, writer, editor, Honored Worker of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and native of the city of Shalkar, Tauman Alybaiuly Torekhanov; with the prominent writer Elubai Smagul Atabaiuly; and with the following residents of Aktobe Region: Zhubanazar Asanov, Kairolda Seilkhanov, Kyniyat Alybaev, Myrzaly Sarybaev, Zhansugir Zhumabaev, Bätima Koishygarina, Samat Alzhanov, Inta Amankulova, Akzharkyn Esmagambetova, Baimenshe Karzhaubaev, Zharylkasyn Zhanuzakov, Shyrazhan Sarsenbaeva, Gaisha Niyazova, Aliya Yusupova, Bayan Sarsembina, Gulsara Seitova, Suleimen Adilgereyev, Orazbai Murynov, Zagira Dauletkalieva, Nesibeli Imangaliyeva, Orynbasar Bayadilov, Maria Zhumagazina, Amanzhol Kalys, Gulimai Abishkyzy, and Gulzhainar Kaldina.
As a result of the work carried out, substantial interviews were collected from Aktobe residents who have preserved family histories connected with the famine years. The interviews included information on the causes of the famine, the migration histories of families, the hardships of daily life, deceased relatives, the destinies of survivors, and the survival strategies of the population. Materials from family archives were gathered; several respondents provided rare photographs, letters, genealogies (shezhire), and archeographic documents related to their family lines. Regional specificities were identified, and valuable information was obtained regarding the demographic, social, and economic consequences of the famine in Aktobe Region. Academic connections were established. The collected materials will make it possible to reveal regional aspects of the history of the famine, systematize personal testimonies, and contribute to the preservation of historical memory.
