DUSHANBE - The United Nations International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) will provide $19.7 million to Tajikistan for the Access to Markets and Adaptation for Livestock (AMAL) program, which aims to modernize livestock production, increase resilience to climate change, and expand farmers' access to international markets, Sputnik Tajikistan reports.
The financing agreement was signed by Tajikistan's Minister of Finance, Fayziddin Qahhorzoda, and IFAD Regional Director, Robert Longo. The total project cost is estimated at approximately $39.4 million, including co-financing from the government, financial institutions, and program participants.
The project is designed primarily to support smallholder farmers and pastoral communities in rural areas of the country. According to IFAD, approximately 54,000 households will directly benefit from the program.
AMAL plans to modernize veterinary services, improve pasture management, develop forage resources, introduce climate-resilient farming practices, and expand livestock trade infrastructure. Particular attention will be paid to creating value chains, supporting small agribusinesses, and developing meat and dairy processing.
IFAD notes that the program is also intended to reduce Tajikistan's dependence on meat and dairy imports by increasing domestic production and improving productivity. The project includes components to improve food security, develop rural employment, and support women and youth in the agricultural sector.
Livestock production is considered a key sector of Tajikistan's rural economy, particularly in mountainous areas, where a significant portion of the population relies on pasture and smallholder farming.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
May 27, 2026