The U.S. government, in collaboration with the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and Nookat Almasy Cooperative, has inaugurated the largest cold storage facility in the Nookat district. This new facility is anticipated to create 200 permanent jobs and enhance market opportunities for local farmers.
With a total capacity of 1,000 tons, the new cold storage facility is designed to bolster food security and improve the livelihoods of farmers throughout the district. It will allow farmers to store locally grown apples and raspberries for up to four months, enabling them to sell their produce at more favorable prices when market conditions are better. This capability will contribute to market stability and ensure a consistent food supply year-round.
Nookat Almasy Cooperative was provided with cooling equipment valued at over KGS 7mn ($78,400) by USAID through its Agro Trade Activity. These advanced storage solutions will prolong the shelf life of the produce, minimize spoilage, and enable farmers to maximize their income.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Bakyt Torobaev, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, along with Kaya Adams, USAID Mission Director in the Kyrgyz Republic, and other notable dignitaries.
Since 2018, the U.S. government has supported the establishment of more than 20 new cold storage facilities in the southern regions of the Kyrgyz Republic. Together, these facilities boast a total storage capacity of 12,500 tons, effectively doubling the region's storage capabilities. They have significantly reduced food spoilage by 40% and have provided income-generating opportunities for over 4,000 farmers.
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