Ferghana Villages Gain FAO Recognition, Farmers Access Tech

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  The villages of Novkent and Yuksalish in Ferghana Region have received international recognition under the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) initiative supporting rural communities. The settlements were awarded certificates from the FAO Director-General.

This recognition reflects achievements in sustainable rural development, preservation of natural heritage and biodiversity, and the advancement of local food systems through innovative approaches.

As a result, the villages have been included in the global MuNe network — FAO’s Museum and Network of Food and Agriculture based at the organization’s headquarters in Rome. The MuNe platform promotes rural areas internationally and facilitates knowledge sharing and best practices between countries.

“The international recognition of our village is a great honor for our entire community. It is the result of collective efforts by residents to preserve traditions, protect natural resources, and develop sustainable sources of income,” said Azizov Askarali, chairman of the Novkent community council.

At the same time, FAO, in cooperation with Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Agriculture, continues implementing initiatives to advance rural development through innovative solutions under the “Smart Agriculture for Future Generations” project.

During a visit to the Ferghana Valley, owners of greenhouse farms received modern fruit-drying equipment. A total of 30 sets were distributed: 13 in Namangan Region, 10 in Andijan Region, and 7 in Ferghana Region.

The equipment enables longer product storage, supports processing and packaging, increases farmers’ income, reduces post-harvest losses, and expands access to markets.

“FAO has supported us for several years, including helping to build a greenhouse, which significantly increased production efficiency. This allowed us to fund our children’s higher education. The new fruit-drying equipment will further boost income by enabling product processing,” said project participant Mahmudova Gulchekhrahon from Namangan Region.

These initiatives demonstrate FAO’s consistent efforts to implement innovations, support local communities, and develop sustainable agri-food systems in Uzbekistan.