A dedicated Accelerator Program for farmers and agripreneurs is being launched in the Republic of Karakalpakstan under the project “Development of Sustainable Agricultural Production Systems in Degraded Areas of Karakalpakstan,” funded by the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD).

The program is being implemented in partnership with the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), based in the United Arab Emirates, and the Agency for Innovative Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The training program will commence on 3 August and will run for one month at the Nukus Youth Technopark. Participants will gain practical knowledge and hands-on skills in developing value-added products, modern agribusiness management, commercialization of agricultural products, and accessing new markets.

The project's primary objective is to promote the widespread adoption of innovative approaches in agriculture, enhance the competitiveness of farmers and agripreneurs, and support the development of sustainable agricultural production systems across the region. 










To mark the launch of the program, we spoke with Dr. Tarifa Alzaabi, Director General of ICBA.
 

— What is the strategic purpose behind establishing the Farmers and Agripreneurs Accelerator Program?

This program was designed based on the achievements and experience gained through our projects implemented in the Republic of Karakalpakstan with the financial support of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. As we evaluated the outcomes of these projects, it became clear that the next step was to elevate our support for farmers.

Through this accelerator, participants will acquire modern knowledge and practical skills, learn how to apply them effectively in their daily activities, and gain the experience necessary to grow successful agricultural businesses. Our goal is to equip farmers and agripreneurs with the knowledge and practical competencies that will enable them to become more successful entrepreneurs and more productive farmers.

— Why has developing the value chain and commercializing agricultural products become a priority at this stage?

We are committed to supporting farmers throughout the entire agricultural value chain. Our work follows the "Farm to Fork" approach, which covers every stage—from production and processing to market access and ultimately delivering products to consumers.

For this reason, we place particular emphasis on supporting farmers at every step of the value chain, beginning with soil preparation and planting, continuing through cultivation, post-harvest processing, and finally bringing products to market. Our objective is to provide them with the knowledge and practical skills required at each of these stages.

— What role does ICBA play in implementing this program?

Since the launch of our ADFD-funded project in Karakalpakstan, we have placed strong emphasis on providing comprehensive support to farmers.

This includes strengthening their modern agronomic and technical skills, as well as enhancing their knowledge of marketing and agribusiness management.

Our mission is to help farmers fully understand the importance of the Farm to Fork approach while creating new opportunities for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and stronger connections with markets.

By the completion of the five-year project, we expect participating farmers to possess the knowledge and practical experience needed to produce high-quality agricultural products and successfully market them in competitive markets.

— What opportunities do salt-tolerant and climate-resilient crops create for Karakalpakstan?

Given the environmental challenges associated with the Aral Sea crisis and climate change, it is essential to focus on climate-smart crops.

We have introduced drought- and salt-tolerant crop varieties to farmers in Karakalpakstan. These crops enable more efficient use of water and other natural resources. At the same time, they offer high nutritional value and contribute additional value to both the region's agricultural sector and its ecosystem.

— How will the success of the Accelerator Program be measured?

The success of the program will be assessed using several key indicators.

First, we aim to engage 200 farmers across Karakalpakstan. Particular attention will be given to attracting highly motivated participants, including women and young people, ensuring that they play an active role in the program.

Secondly, we will evaluate the market readiness of the products developed through the accelerator, their commercialization potential, and their ability to generate additional value along the agricultural value chain.

We are confident that the outcomes of this initiative will make a meaningful contribution to advancing innovative and sustainable agriculture in Karakalpakstan and look forward to celebrating these achievements together with all our partners and participants.