Tashkent, Uzbekistan, April 19, 2024 – Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI) Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Water Resources of the Republic of Karakalpakstan (MoWR KK) signed a Memorandum of Understanding focused on creating and maintaining the implementation and dissemination of climate resilient green technologies in Karakalpakstan.  The MoU was signed by GGGI Uzbekistan Country Representative, Dr. Aaron Russell, and the Minister of Water Resources, H. E. Bakhtiyor Zhuzbayev. 

Under the MoU, GGGI and the MoWR KK agreed on cooperation in the realization of the  ‘Green Rehabilitation Investment Project for Karakalpakstan Republic to address impacts of the Aral Sea crisis’ (Aral Sea GRIP),’ carried out by GGGI, funded by KOICA. Both parties will work together on the design, implementation, and expansion of climate-resilient water-saving technologies, green technologies, and windbreaks. Additionally, they will introduce modern information, communication, and innovative technologies to the local context. In addition, efforts will be made to enhance legal and regulatory frameworks concerning water management, along with joint monitoring and data collection initiatives.    

At the signing ceremony, Minister H.E. Zhuzbayev expressed interest in the possibility of GGGI designing more water-focused projects in Karakalpakstan. 

“GGGI is proud to work side by side with the MoWRKK to advance climate-resilient water technologies that will benefit thousands of people in Karakalpakstan,” Dr. Russell said.   

There were further discussions about the possible areas of cooperation as well as areas in which GGGI could support the ministry’s activities, and the ministry could contribute to the successful implementation of GGGI’s Aral Sea GRIP. 

About the Aral Sea GRIP project:  

The desiccation of the Aral Sea basin and its delta have resulted in the loss of agricultural potential, livelihoods and employment and have led to health challenges. These problems are expected to worsen due to the impacts of climate change. To effectively address these issues, GGGI is implementing ‘Green Rehabilitation Investment Project for Karakalpakstan Republic to address impacts of the Aral Sea crisis’ (Aral Sea GRIP)’ for three years (2021 to 2024), financed by KOICA (5.9 Million USD) and supported by the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of the Republic of Uzbekistan (MEEPCC). The project supports communities of the four most disaster-afflicted districts of Karakalpakstan, Bozataw, Chimbay, Karauyzak and Kegeyli, with climate-smart measures to build sustainable livelihoods.