The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a new project in Uzbekistan aimed at strengthening water resource management and enhancing climate resilience in the Aral Sea region. The initiative is funded by the Japanese government with a contribution of $4.6 million.

The signing ceremony on February 27 was attended by First Deputy Minister of Water Resources Zokir Ishpulatov, Japanese Ambassador to Uzbekistan Kenji Hirata, and UNDP Resident Representative in Uzbekistan Akiko Fujii.

The project will be implemented from 2026 to 2028 and focuses on strengthening the capacity of the Aral Sea population through integrated and climate-resilient water management. Key components include strengthening national and local water management institutions, digitalizing water management systems, improving water infrastructure for farmers, and promoting regional knowledge exchange.

According to Akiko Fujii, the project fosters a culture of responsible water use. Gender equality is integrated as a core principle.

Ambassador Kenji Hirata expressed hope that the project will contribute to water security and sustainable water resource management in Uzbekistan.

The project is expected to significantly improve water use efficiency and agricultural productivity for over 1,000 farmers through irrigation infrastructure restoration, precision irrigation technologies, and innovative solutions.

From 2023 to 2025, UNDP and the Japanese government implemented a project in the Aral Sea region supporting self-sufficiency through climate-resilient agriculture, improving the well-being of over 376,000 people.

Source: www.gazeta.uz