In the rugged landscapes of Tajikistan, where labor migration has become a prevalent aspect of life, rural communities grapple with the multifaceted impacts of family members seeking employment opportunities abroad, FAO reported. With approximately 10% of Tajikistan’s population working overseas, the repercussions are profound, leaving behind a trail of socioeconomic challenges for those who remain.
The exodus of predominantly male family members for work beyond Tajikistan’s borders engenders a series of hardships for those left behind. Among the most vulnerable are rural women and youth, who find themselves thrust into unfamiliar roles as they shoulder the responsibilities once borne by migrating men. From managing time for farm labor to grappling with deficits in agricultural inputs, the challenges are manifold. Moreover, the specter of climate change looms large, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities within the agricultural sector.
One such individual navigating these turbulent waters is Dilafruz Pakhlavonova, hailing from the Dusti district of the Khatlon region. With her husband pursuing work abroad, Dilafruz and her son found themselves ensnared in dire circumstances, grappling with unemployment and financial strain, while also contending with the inability to afford her son’s education.
However, amidst these adversities, a beacon of hope emerged in the form of a collaborative initiative spearheaded by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in conjunction with partners including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), UN Women, and UNICEF. Dubbed the “Empowerment of Abandoned Families for Improved Migration Outcomes in Khatlon” project, this endeavor sought to address the myriad challenges faced by rural women and families left vulnerable by labor migration.
Central to the initiative were the Women’s Farmer Field Schools (FFS), which provided comprehensive training to twenty women’s groups comprising over 500 individuals. Through these schools, women were equipped with a diverse skill set ranging from planting techniques to greenhouse cultivation and organic farming methods. Moreover, they received vital agricultural inputs to bolster their endeavors, including seed packages, greenhouses, and processing equipment.
The outcomes of these interventions were profound. For Dilafruz and her peers, the training sessions proved transformative, empowering them to enhance agricultural practices and improve livelihoods. Armed with newfound knowledge, Dilafruz devised a business plan that secured her a 100 square meter greenhouse, paving the way for future endeavors in vegetable cultivation for local markets.
Furthermore, recognizing the pivotal role of youth in sustaining agricultural productivity, the initiative extended its reach to schools, establishing 50 Junior Farmer Field Schools across two districts of Tajikistan. Through these schools, students were exposed to innovative agricultural practices such as drip irrigation and vertical farming, fostering a renewed interest in agriculture and mitigating the allure of migration.
Crucially, as out-migration for labor remains predominantly a male trend, the increased skills and knowledge of girls and women not only enhance their preparedness for farm work but also pave the way for a more equitable agricultural sector. With over 60% of Tajikistan’s women already participating in agriculture, initiatives like these hold the promise of building resilience and fortifying livelihoods in the face of labor migration challenges.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)