A multi-faceted approach to development in a country beset by economic and natural risks

Tajikistan, a beautiful country of high mountains and deep valleys, is struggling with a precarious socio-economic situation where more than 70 % of the population lives in severe poverty. ACTED has been present in Tajikistan since 1996 and during this period the mission has changed from one of humanitarian aid to one of long term sustainable development. In 2010, ACTED continued its holistic approach to development in Tajikistan by addressing the most pertinent economic issues facing rural populations, as well as tackling the most prevalent natural risks which threaten rural communities.

Holistic development in the midst of economic turmoil

In the aftermath of the global financial crisis, Tajikistan suffered a steep decline in remittances and a severe weakening of local markets. In response to these issues, ACTED strengthened the social and economic status of both migrants and rural farming communities.

In 2010, ACTED promoted the rights of labour migrants, facilitating their access to jobs and combating human trafficking. It successfully lobbied the government to tackle basic rights which elude labour migrants in their endeavour to provide a better livelihood for both themselves and their families. Through educational campaigns, ACTED has helped migrants become increasingly aware of their rights. In parallel, it has built the government’s capacity to address and prevent problematic issues that affect migrant workers. ACTED also encouraged the innovative use of remittances in community based projects linking the economic benefits of migration with the need for urgent development.

The agricultural needs of those who remain in Tajikistan have also been a high priority. ACTED supported the establishment of ‘farmer cooperatives’ in order to strengthen the position of farmers in the local market place. It has also worked with farmers to update their agricultural techniques and diversify their crops. Once again, the sustainability of these activities is complemented by ACTED’s local governance initiative which supports the efforts of community organizations to work with the local authorities and integrate any agricultural improvements into local development initiatives.

A two-fold approach to mitigating natural threats

Floods, mudflows and landslides are recurring features in a country adorned with high glacial peaks and numerous rivers. Many rural villages are located in hazard prone areas often suffering from a loss of infrastructure, housing, and farmland. In 2010, ACTED continued to build up its expertise in disaster risk reduction (DRR) and enhance rural communities’ disaster preparedness capacity by developing their coping mechanisms and raising their awareness on DRR. With ACTED’s support, communities now work hand in hand with government emergency services to develop disaster maps for their villages. This tool allows people to increase their awareness of natural hazards, to draw up preparedness plans, and to help them construct houses, bridges, etc., in safe areas, thus reducing the possible impact of such events. 

ACTED has also helped communities to implement their own projects aimed at mitigating natural disasters. Projects involving the construction of roads and bridges are now implemented with a conscious attempt to mitigate against severe natural hazards. The aim is that structures are able to last longer contributing to the socio-economic stability of communities. In addition to this, ACTED has also been involved in large scale reforestation works along the banks of the Pyanj river bordering Afghanistan. When completed, this forest will be one of the main preventive features against possible floods in the South of the country.

Tajikistan today: economic recovery and environmental mitigation

Encouraging the development of the civil society remains the most powerful tool to help the socio-economic development of Tajikistan. ACTED is reinforcing its 15 years of work in the field of local governance by supporting  the civil society at the grass roots level, helping communities address their own development problems and giving them a voice by strengthening their links with local authorities.

Furthermore, ACTED is building on its 2010 achievements to address the multifaceted problems which the population faces on a day to day basis by integrating disaster preparedness with economic development and vice versa. The aim is to implement projects with a broad focus ensuring a holistic, effective, and sustainable intervention.

Building resilience to climate change will be at the forefront of ACTED’s agenda in Tajikistan, by developing various programmes to tackle this looming crisis. Natural resource management is at the center of any strategy, as it addresses the underlining causes of any natural hazard exacerbated by climate change. In alleviating these root causes, ACTED believes that environmental stability will grant a platform for people to build a more prosperous nation.