Donors Allocate $172 Million for Kyrgyzstan's Irrigation Modernization

Kyrgyzstan is poised to significantly upgrade its vital irrigation infrastructure with a substantial $172 million investment from international donors. This initiative aims to modernize outdated systems, enhance water security, and boost agricultural output, a sector crucial for the nation's economy and employment.

The funding package, reported by The Times of Central Asia, will be channeled through international financial institutions and development partners. Major contributions include $95.75 million from the World Bank, $50 million from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, $20 million from the OPEC Fund for International Development, and a $6.25 million grant from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. The project is slated for completion by 2032.

Hugh Riddell, World Bank Country Manager for Kyrgyzstan, highlighted the country's commitment to modernizing its irrigation networks and ensuring more reliable water access for farmers and rural communities. He noted that despite agriculture's importance, productivity has been hampered by inefficient systems and significant water losses.

This comprehensive project will address these challenges through infrastructure upgrades, reforms in water management, and improved maintenance practices. The modernization efforts are particularly critical as Kyrgyzstan navigates the increasing risks posed by climate change to its agricultural sector.

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the country has set itself the goal of modernizing irrigation networks and making water access more reliable for farmers and rural communities.