Zhambyl

Oblast (region) in southern Kazakhstan; area 144,600 sq km/55,830 sq mi; population (1996) 1,000,000. The capital is Zhambyl. Phosphor is mined (at Chulak-Tau), and chemicals, building materials, and foodstuffs are produced. Sugar beet, cotton, grain, fruit, and vegetables are grown under irrigation, and sheep are raised.

The Tien Shan foothills lie in the south of the region, while the north is chiefly desert. The northeast borders on the western shore of Lake Balkhash. There are large phosphor deposits. Cities include Chu.