FAO hosts round table in Bishkek to secure irrigation amid climate change
Bishkek – On 17 June a roundtable discussion titled “Technical Solutions for Improving Water Availability in Irrigation Systems for Mountain Communities in Kyrgyzstan Under Climate Change” was held in the conference hall of the Water Resources Service under the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic.
The event was organized as part of the 80th anniversary celebration of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and also marked World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, observed annually on June 17.
The forum brought together representatives of government agencies, international organizations, research institutions, water user associations, as well as technical experts and farmers.
Participants discussed a wide range of issues related to sustainable water resource management, the adoption of modern climate-resilient technologies, improving irrigation efficiency, and mitigating the impacts of climate change on the agricultural sector.
Key discussion points included the challenge of water scarcity during the growing season and the need for a coordinated approach to water allocation. Attendees explored innovative technologies such as drip irrigation and digital monitoring systems, as well as initiatives to create artificial glaciers and reservoirs for water conservation.
In his welcoming remarks, Oleg Guchgeldiyev, FAO Representative in the Kyrgyz Republic, elaborated on FAO’s work in Kyrgyzstan to help farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions.
He specifically introduced a new FAO project aimed at implementing and scaling up artificial glacier technology. This initiative is particularly crucial for the region, where the rapid decline of natural glaciers poses significant challenges to agriculture, especially in the summer months. The technology helps accumulate water in winter and gradually release it during dry periods, enhancing farmers' resilience to climate change.
“Artificial glaciers are not just a technological solution,” said Oleg Guchgeldiyev, FAO Representative in Kyrgyzstan. “These innovations serve as a pillar of resilience for rural communities in a changing climate. Such projects strengthen food security and promote long-term agricultural development.”
Baktybek Anarkulov, Deputy Director of the Water Resources Service of the Kyrgyz Republic, emphasized the importance of joint efforts: “Given rapid climate change, increasing pressure on water resources, and land degradation, our shared task is to find practical and technically sound solutions. We must move from words to action—adopting innovations, training specialists, and collaborating with international partners to enhance our country’s water security.”
Following the roundtable, recommendations were developed for further steps in national water policy, including infrastructure development, investment attraction, and expanded cooperation with international organizations.
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