A media tour took place in Samarkand as part of the project “Financing sustainable development of the livestock sector,” implemented by the Committee of veterinary and livestock development of the Republic of Uzbekistan in cooperation with the French Development Agency (AFD). Participants were presented with the results of the program’s implementation and the mechanisms designed to support entrepreneurs.
The project, with a total budget of €147.1 million, is scheduled for 2022–2026 and aims to modernize the sector through the introduction of modern technologies and resource-efficient solutions. Special attention is given to the development of a green economy and the adaptation of farms to climate change.
Within the framework of the program, entrepreneurs are provided with financial support instruments, including partial credit guarantees. To date, guarantees amounting to 8.8 billion UZS have been issued to 26 beneficiaries. The project also provides a mechanism for partial reimbursement of loan funds after project launch, provided that established conditions are met.
Since the beginning of implementation, 321 subprojects have been financed. A total of 3,085 new jobs have been created, including 825 for women. The program has supported the purchase of 249 units of agricultural machinery, more than 11,000 sheep and goats, 5,000 head of cattle, and over 3.5 million poultry. Modern technological lines for milk processing and feed production have been put into operation.
Particular attention is paid to women’s employment. A “social lift” model is being introduced in the regions, enabling women to register as entrepreneurs, gain stable income, and receive social protection.
During the media tour, participants visited enterprises in the Samarkand region implementing projects in fish farming, poultry production, and livestock development.