Nukus: The International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) has entered into a collaborative agreement with Uzbekistan's Agency for Innovative Development to initiate the 'Farmers' and Agro-Entrepreneurs Accelerator for Developing and Commercializing Crop Value Chains' in Nukus, Karakalpakstan. The accord was formalized by Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, Director General of ICBA, and Dr. Asror Norov, Acting Director of the Agency for Innovative Development.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme is supported by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development under the project titled 'Development of Sustainable Agricultural Production Systems in Degraded Areas of Karakalpakstan'. This initiative marks a significant advancement in the project's trajectory by transitioning from merely supporting sustainable agricultural production to actively facilitating the development of crop value chains, enhancing commercial readiness, and expanding market access for farmers and agro-entrepreneurs.
Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi emphasized, 'This agreement signifies a critical phase in our efforts in Karakalpakstan as we shift from supporting sustainable agriculture to empowering farmers and agro-entrepreneurs with practical pathways for value chain development and market accessibility. We aim to equip beneficiaries with the necessary technical and business acumen to transform climate-resilient crops into scalable economic ventures.'
Dr. Alzaabi further stated, 'Our partnership with the Agency for Innovative Development is invaluable, and the ongoing support from the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development is crucial. The focus on women and youth within the programme is vital as it combines local capacity-building with tangible economic opportunities, contributing to more resilient agricultural systems in Uzbekistan.'
Dr. Asror Norov highlighted, 'This cooperation is pivotal for the Aral Sea region, linking innovation with tangible agricultural transformation. Leveraging ICBA's scientific expertise and international experience in biosaline agriculture, the programme aims to modernize crop value chains in Karakalpakstan, from cultivation to processing and market delivery. It will also establish a structured training and acceleration platform for farmers, young specialists, and agri-entrepreneurs, promoting the broader application of green innovations.'
Spanning three months, the programme targets 200 beneficiaries from Karakalpakstan, emphasizing participation from women and youth. It offers an integrated support model encompassing technical training, post-harvest management, agro-processing, branding, business planning, and market access, thereby enabling beneficiaries to enhance the economic value of climate-resilient crops and transform agricultural production into scalable opportunities.
Through this agreement, ICBA continues to solidify its position as a scientific and technical partner in promoting sustainable agriculture, crop value chain development, and rural economic resilience in Uzbekistan and beyond.
