Karakalpakstan Project Recognised With Energy Globe Award 2024 For Sustainable Agricultural Innovations

The "Development of Sustainable Agricultural Production Systems in Degraded Areas of Karakalpakstan" project, funded by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD), has been honoured as Uzbekistan's national winner of the Energy Globe Award 2024. This recognition highlights the project's significant impact on tackling environmental and agricultural issues caused by the Aral Sea's decline, aligning with global sustainability objectives.

Now eligible to compete in the International Energy Globe Award – Earth Category in March 2025, this initiative showcases a collaborative effort. The project is executed by the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) alongside the International Innovation Center for Aral Sea Basin (IICAS) and the Karakalpakstan Agricultural Research Institute (KARI). It operates under the guidance of Uzbekistan's Ministry of Ecology, Environment Protection and Climate Change, and Ministry of Agriculture.

This collaboration exemplifies triangular cooperation principles, combining expertise and resources from the Global South to create sustainable agricultural systems. Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director-General of ADFD, stated, "The recognition of the Karakalpakstan project by the Energy Globe Award is a testament to the power of strategic partnerships and our shared commitment to advancing sustainable development globally. ADFD is proud to support initiatives that restore degraded ecosystems and empower local communities with the tools and resources to achieve long-term resilience."

Dr. Tarifa Al Zaabi, Director-General of ICBA, added, "The recognition of the Karakalpakstan project highlights the transformative power of partnership, innovation, and knowledge-sharing across the Global South in addressing pressing environmental and agricultural challenges. Through this initiative, we are restoring degraded landscapes and equipping local communities, especially women and youth, with the tools and knowledge to secure their livelihoods and shape a sustainable future."

The project has directly benefited 100 farmers who were trained in seed production techniques at three demonstration sites in Karakalpakstan. Additionally, 58 national scientists received training in soil, water, and crop management practices to improve dissemination and sustainability efforts. These educational initiatives have played a crucial role in enhancing local capacity.

Through evaluating 30 crop varieties, eight high-performing ones were identified for seed multiplication. This selection included both ICBA-developed varieties and local ones. A total of four tonnes of seeds were produced for distribution. These efforts have significantly bolstered agricultural resilience in salt-affected regions while promoting self-reliance among farming communities.

The project's success underscores its importance in restoring degraded ecosystems while empowering local populations with essential tools for long-term resilience. By focusing on innovative solutions through strategic partnerships, it contributes significantly to global sustainability goals.

With inputs from WAM