In rural areas of Uzbekistan, where families rely on backyard gardens for growing vegetables, the increasing scarcity of water has made it challenging to sustain their crops. However, innovative solutions have emerged to address these challenges.
The new drip irrigation system has been launched in the Akkurgan district of the Tashkent Region, known for its difficult water supply conditions. It includes a solar-powered water pump that draws water from a vertical well 180 meters deep.
Currently, the system is used to irrigate 0.8 hectares of land, benefiting 10 households and saving 60% more water compared to traditional irrigation methods. The system has the capacity to irrigate 3 hectares of land, potentially benefiting 20 more households.
In response to the threats of climate change and increased water demand, the government of Uzbekistan is promoting cost-effective farmer-led irrigation as a crucial measure for climate adaptation. The excess electricity generated by the solar panels is sold to the State Electricity System, and the revenue is used to maintain and operate the irrigation well and drip irrigation network.
Mr. Wim Riepma, Head of Cooperation of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Uzbekistan, emphasized the multiple benefits of the solar-powered drip irrigation system, stating that it not only addresses water scarcity but also promotes sustainable agriculture and directly benefits local families by providing access to electricity and water for irrigation, thus ensuring food security and increasing incomes.
Ms. Akiko Fujii, Resident Representative for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Uzbekistan, also highlighted the significance of the project, stating that it is a milestone in improving the lives of people in Uzbekistan and contributes to achieving multiple Sustainable Development Goals, such as poverty reduction, zero hunger, and water and energy security.
One of the residents, Maftuna Akhmedova, shared her experience with the new drip irrigation system, stating that it has allowed her to grow vegetables even during the hot summer months when plants used to dry up without rain. She expressed her satisfaction with the system and how it has made gardening a more enjoyable experience.
The project was implemented by a local Innovation Group, which included specialists from various institutions such as the Scientific Research Institute of Irrigation and Water Problems, the Scientific Research Institute of Vegetables, Melon Crops and Potato, the International Strategic Centre for Agri-Food Development (ISCAD), the Center for Agricultural Services (AKIS), and the Koshtepa Assembly of Neighborhood Citizens.
The new drip irrigation system and the Innovation Group were launched as part of the project “Supporting an inclusive transition to a green economy in the agri-food sector and development of a climate-smart Uzbek Agriculture Knowledge and Innovation System” (EU-AGRIN). The UNDP, in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, implements the project, which is funded by the EU.
Nasiba Ziyodullayeva, UzA