FAO and Uzbekistan Review Results of a Regional Project Supporting Smallholder Farmers

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), together with the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan, held a final high-level event to mark the completion of the regional project “Smallholder Farmers as Agricultural Innovators for Sustainable Agri-Food Ecosystems.”

Agriculture remains one of the key sectors of Uzbekistan’s economy, ensuring employment, income growth, and food security. Within the framework of state agricultural policy, particular emphasis is placed on the development of the fruit and vegetable sector as one of the priority areas.

Implemented in Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan with financial support from FAO through the Flexible Voluntary Contribution mechanism, the two-year project focused on strengthening the capacity of smallholder farmers by introducing innovative and climate-resilient approaches, expanding access to knowledge, and reinforcing market linkages.

As a result of the project, smallholder farmers gained practical tools for adopting climate-adapted technologies in the production of priority fruit and vegetable crops. The capacity of the vegetable seed sector was significantly strengthened, while farmers’ skills in crop production, farm management, and value chain development were enhanced. At the same time, the institutional and technical capacity of relevant national organizations was reinforced.

The final event brought together representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan, FAO, the diplomatic corps, international organizations, donor institutions, financial institutions, farmer cooperatives, and development partners.

Participants discussed the achievements attained, lessons learned, and prospects for further scaling up climate-oriented greenhouse and horticultural projects.

The program included a plenary session, a presentation of a new project proposal, a thematic exhibition of organic and climate-resilient products, and a technical discussion.

Demonstration areas showcased innovative solutions, successful agrotechnologies, and initiatives promoting women’s leadership.

The event confirmed the significant role of smallholder farmers, particularly women, in the development of sustainable agri-food systems, the strengthening of food security, and the enhancement of climate resilience in Uzbekistan’s agriculture.