Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan, with its mountainous terrain, is highly vulnerable to environmental challenges such as deforestation, soil erosion, and the impacts of climate change. The country’s dependence on agriculture, especially livestock farming, exacerbates land degradation, while the retreat of glaciers threatens water resources that are crucial for both agriculture and hydropower. Efforts to protect the environment are underway, including initiatives to promote sustainable land management and the conservation of biodiversity.

IWMI in Kyrgyzstan

IWMI’s work in Kyrgyzstan focuses on improving water allocation efficiency in transboundary river basins, particularly in the Naryn and Kara Darya catchments. By developing a climate-sensitive Decision Support System (DSS), the initiative helps water managers optimize water distribution, ensuring long-term sustainability amid increasing climate pressures. The project combines real-time data monitoring, machine learning, and integrated modeling to address water scarcity, enhance water quality, and foster collaboration among Kyrgyzstan and neighboring countries in the Syr Darya basin.

Additionally, IWMI is contributing to the development of sustainable hydropower solutions by introducing innovative European technologies to Kyrgyzstan, targeting untapped small-scale hydropower potential. These solutions aim to integrate the water, food, energy, and climate nexus, offering clean, affordable energy while addressing the region’s growing water demands. IWMI’s initiatives not only support the energy sector but also play a critical role in regional cooperation, advancing knowledge-sharing, capacity-building, and youth engagement for long-term water security and environmental resilience.