Nukus, Uzbekistan, December 2, 2023 – Against the backdrop of the Aral Sea’s dwindling shores, GGGI Uzbekistan spearheaded a series of capacity-building trainings as part of the KOICA-funded Green Rehabilitation Investment Project for Karakalpakstan Republic to Address Impacts of the Aral Sea Crisis (Aral Sea GRIP).
Under the Aral Sea GRIP, GGGI Uzbekistan and the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan have been supporting the capacity-building activities for key stakeholders in the implementation of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) activities in Karakalpakstan. Karakalpakstan, plagued by the shrinking waters of the Aral Sea and enduring constant water stress worsened by climate change, has deemed the resolution of these issues a top priority.
Central to the Aral Sea GRIP’s mission is the enhancement of Karakalpakstan’s adaptation capacity. With a particular focus on Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA), the project champions initiatives like windbreak planting aimed at mitigating sand, dust, and salt storms. Uzbekistan has set an ambitious target of planting 200,000 hectares annually until 2030, with Karakalpakstan being a significant locus of these efforts.
In response to these urgent circumstances, GGGI, bolstered by Master Fruit’s technical expertise, conducted a series of capacity-building trainings across the region. First, on October 26, in Nukus, stakeholders delved into efficient land and water management techniques in tree nurseries alongside demonstrations of commercial tree propagation technologies. Second, on November 28, in Chimbay, Karauzyak, Kegeyli, and Bozataw districts, a focus was placed on enhancing crop quality and yield through resource-efficient practices, climate-friendly water management, and input-saving technologies in winter wheat and fruit production. Lastly, on December 2 in Nukus, a comprehensive exploration of the economic, environmental, and social benefits of Karatal (black willow) windbreaks was conducted.
These training sessions served as vital platforms for disseminating knowledge on efficient tree production, water-saving technologies, and the strategic implementation of windbreaks as a CSA solution. Participants were equipped with insights into winter wheat and fruit orchard management practices, including land preparation, seeding, seed treatment, fertilization, and pest management. Of particular significance was the sharing of expertise on planning and implementing windbreaks using Karatal, a traditional tree species integral to Karakalpakstan’s cultural heritage. Attendees were treated to on-site visits and practical demonstrations, offering firsthand exposure to climate-resilient adaptation methods.
GGGI’s commitment to supporting Karakalpakstan’s tree nurseries in their journey toward climate resilience remains unwavering. The promotion of Karatal windbreak plantations and CSA models stands as a significant means of fighting against climate change and the ongoing Aral Sea Crisis. As Karakalpakstan navigates the tumultuous waters of environmental uncertainty, GGGI stands steadfast in its pledge to foster a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.