Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  A seminar and training session was held in the Quva district of the Ferghana region as part of the FAO project "Implementation of Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) in Uzbekistan," supported by the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan and the International Public Foundation "Zamin."

Over thirty representatives from farming and dehkan households, agricultural departments, local authorities, associations, and entrepreneurs from various districts of the region participated in the event.

The training was based on preliminary studies of the unique natural and human potential of the Ferghana region, highlighting the preservation of agricultural systems that reflect the evolution of local residents and their deep connection with the land. Participants analyzed the region's agricultural heritage potential, assessed the information based on international criteria, and identified the boundaries of this heritage.

Key criteria included systems that ensure food security, maintain livelihoods, offer rich and unique agro-biodiversity, traditional knowledge and technologies, cultural values, and social organization forms, as well as unique landscapes shaped by land and water resource management systems.

Many participants noted that Ferghana is a prime example of how accumulated knowledge in resource management has become a true heritage and pride for local farmers, emphasizing the importance of preserving and continuously developing this heritage.

The data gathered during the training, along with additional information about Ferghana's agricultural potential and heritage, will be used to prepare a justification for registering the first GIAHS site in Uzbekistan.

Khursidjon Akhmedov, Deputy Khokim of Ferghana Region and Head of the Ferghana Project Working Group said: Ferghana has significant agricultural potential. Our land and the people who have lived here for centuries have developed practices to adapt to the environment's opportunities and limitations, accumulating valuable experience passed down through generations. Examples include unique silk production practices in the Margilan oasis, traditional grapevine cultivation techniques in the Altaiyrik district, and sustainable pomegranate farming in Quva. This heritage is vital for sustainable development at local, national, and global levels.

Musturakhon Safitdinova, Chairperson of the Uzbekistan Pomegranate Growers Association noted: Ferghana is unique, with diverse zones such as slopes, saline soils, and areas with shallow groundwater, creating conditions for maintaining agro-biodiversity. The upper zone is ideal for growing pomegranates, the central zone excels in seedling production, and the lower zone is known for flower cultivation. We are now exporting pomegranates, flowers, and strawberries to neighboring countries and Russia. Additionally, we aim to increase the use of bio-pesticides. The famous Quva pomegranate creates jobs at every stage, from growing to packaging and selling locally and through increasing exports. Our association has applied for the registration of "Quva Pomegranate" as a protected geographical indication.

Sherzod Suyarkulov, Chairperson of the Beekeepers Union of Ferghana Region, added: New technologies for growing crops that consume less water are crucial. We advocate for the diversification of production by planting honey plants along fields and ensuring economic profitability. Bee populations have declined due to pesticide use, highlighting the need to adopt water-saving technologies and crop diversification.