The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Uzbekistan hosted the first-ever UNDP Talks, a platform showcasing real-life success stories of individuals who have overcome challenges through innovative poverty reduction and livelihood improvement initiatives.
The event, held ahead of the upcoming Poverty Reduction Forum, brought together government officials, development partners, private sector representatives, and media to hear firsthand accounts from beneficiaries who, with UNDP’s support, have built sustainable businesses, received critical assistance, and strengthened their communities.
In his opening remarks, Ilkhom Norkulov, First Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan, highlighted the role of the targeted mahalla system in grassroots poverty reduction, combining international expertise with local strategies.
“As UNDP approaches its 60th anniversary in 2025, this milestone event serves as both a reflection and a call to action—to scale up proven solutions and expand community-driven approaches across Uzbekistan,” Norkulov noted.
Sabine Machl, UN Resident Coordinator in Uzbekistan, highlighted the dedication of women across Uzbekistan, including doctors, teachers, activists, and officials, who are committed to driving positive change in their communities.
Laziz Karaev, Head of the UN Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, emphasized the government's commitment to deepening cooperation with UNDP and fostering the exchange of ideas and best practices.
“We are here to listen—to stories of resilience, dignity, and opportunity. UNDP doesn’t just implement projects; we work hand in hand with communities to build lasting solutions. Our goal is clear: to do more, to do better, and to ensure that no one is left behind,” UNDP Resident Representative Akiko Fujii voiced.
The event featured inspiring accounts from individuals who have successfully built businesses and improved their communities:
- Mukaddas, an entrepreneur from the Ferghana Valley, turned a small mung bean business into a thriving export enterprise despite early challenges.
- Sadokat, a cooperative leader from the Tashkent region, united dairy farmers to create a sustainable business model benefiting all members.
- Bahtiyor, a beekeeper from Karakalpakstan, expanded his honey business under the One Village, One Product initiative, supporting economic growth in the Aral Sea region.
- Inobat, a survivor of gender-based violence, rebuilt her life through free legal aid. She is now launching a small sewing business in Samarkand, providing employment opportunities for women in need.
UNDP Talks is the first in a series of events focused on sharing best practices in poverty reduction, livelihoods, and inclusive development. The event called for stronger partnerships, uniting the government, donors, private sector, and civil society to build on proven solutions.
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