Parvathy Ramaswami, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Tajikistan, reflects on the country’s long-standing partnership with the UN and explores how water stewardship and artificial intelligence (AI) innovation can together drive resilient, green and inclusive sustainable development if managed responsibly. Last year, on the eve of the first International High-level Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation in Dushanbe, I had the opportunity to visit the spectacular Vanjyakh (formerly Fedchenko) Glacier. Located in the Pamir Mountains, it is the longest glacier outside the Earth’s polar regions, stretching 77 kilometres (47 miles). There, I was reminded that glaciers are the world’s water towers and must be protected.Tajikistan’s role as the “water tower” of Central Asia is both historic and strategic. The glaciers and rivers flowing from its mountains provide freshwater to millions across the region. Water is not only a vital resource but also a cornerstone of national identity, diplomacy and regional cooperation.Yet climate change is causing glaciers to melt faster, pressuring water systems and intensifying floods and droughts. This makes sustainably managing water one of the country’s biggest challenges for the future.At the same time, I see how new technologies, especially AI, can create opportunities to improve how water is used, managed, and better protected. For example, AI can help predict glacier melt and river flow more accurately. It can also strengthen early warning systems for natural hazards and improve irrigation and hydropower planning. These tools can support Tajikistan and its neighbors in adapting to climate change and better preparing for disasters.Leadership and partnerships address challengesHowever, AI itself brings new challenges. Data centres and digital systems use large amounts of water and energy, especially for cooling. This raises questions about water use, transparency and local environmental impacts. If not managed carefully, the very technologies meant to protect water resources could put more strain on them.In this sense, Tajikistan’s water and AI stories are similar: both can shape the country’s future but must be managed carefully.New partnerships and Tajikistan’s global leadership are offsetting these risks. Since the UN began its work in Tajikistan in 1993, cooperation with the Government and partners has improved water access and management. This work has evolved from providing humanitarian aid to developing environmentally sustainable programmes that use AI.Over three decades, Tajikistan has become a leading global voice on water. The country began by declaring 2003 the International Year of Freshwater and continued its advocacy through two decade-long campaigns dedicated to water.More recently, Tajikistan championed a global effort to declare 2025 the International Year of Glaciers’ Preservation. It also hosted the first International Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation in Dushanbe, highlighting the immediate impacts of glacier loss. Preparations are underway, in collaboration with the UN, for the fourth Dushanbe Water Action Decade Conference in 2026, which will strengthen international collaboration and ensure that water and technology remain national and international priorities.These events bring governments and organizations together, fostering agreement on using AI without harming water resources.The emerging role of AI in water managementIn 2025, Tajikistan put forward a UN resolution on the “Role of AI in creating new opportunities for sustainable development in Central Asia,” reflecting its goal of using AI to benefit one of the youngest regions on the planet.In water management, AI already provides practical tools, such as satellite monitoring, to map glaciers, river basins and water flows more accurately. UN agencies in Tajikistan are supporting the Government in leveraging these digital tools to improve climate resilience. A recent example is the “Glacier Lifelines” virtual reality equipment provided to Tajik scientists, which visualizes glacier changes and their impacts.Building on these immersive tools, digital platforms are also translating data into actionable insights. With support from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the Atlas of Environmental Change offers an interactive online tool where users can track glacial retreat, model water impacts, and guide decisions about reservoirs, conservation, and early warning systems.These innovations are being scaled through regional projects that combine technology with on-the-ground action. The Central Asia Regional Project on Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFCA), led by the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and financed by the Adaptation Fund, is supporting the region in managing the risks posed by floods from glacier lakes breaking apart. Running from 2021 to 2027, the project combines AI analysis with local efforts, ensuring that monitoring leads to practical risk reduction. For example, automatic sensors are being installed to monitor snow, temperature and precipitation. Meanwhile, radio communication and early warning systems help communities prepare. Trackers follow changes in glacial lakes, and hazard modeling identifies the most dangerous zones.As AI transforms the collection and utilization of data to safeguard communities, Tajikistan will be better positioned to foresee climate impacts while continuing to involve local communities.A shared vision for water and innovationThe future of water security depends on international cooperation, new technologies and strong national systems and resources. Tajikistan’s leadership in preserving water, together with emerging digital tools, offers real opportunities to advance all three.The UN team in Tajikistan is dedicated to safeguarding resources, assisting communities to withstand shocks, and ensuring that innovation benefits both people and the environment. By integrating science, policy, and partnerships, water can continue to contribute to prosperity not only in Tajikistan and Central Asia but also worldwide.Water has always linked countries. By using technology and AI responsibly, working together and demonstrating careful leadership, we can create a sustainable and resilient future – and protect it now and for generations to come.This blog was authored by Parvathy Ramaswami, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Tajikistan. Learn more about the UN's work in Tajikistan on the our website. 

Valijon Mirzoev, a farmer from a small village of Kharangoni miyona, whose innovative approach to mushroom farming transformed not only his life but also the lives of those in his family. “I began to sell mushrooms at local markets and to nearby restaurants in Dushanbe city and Bokhtar town, where I found a ready customer eager for fresh, organic produce. During the spring season this year, I harvested about 1,000 kg of mushrooms and sold TJS 35,000 (around USD$3,600), which I am satisfied with this profit. This amount of money can support breadwinners to feed their families without going into migration”, says Valijon.    In the mountainous district of Varzob, where agriculture has been less developed due to the lack of arable land, the untapped potential of alternative farming methods is gradually gaining recognition. Among these methods, mushroom cultivation stands out as a lucrative venture that requires relatively less space and investment. This is the story of 21-year-old Valijon Mirzoev, a farmer from a small village of Kharangoni miyona, whose innovative approach to mushroom farming transformed not only his life but also the lives of those in his family. Usually, unemployment makes the people in his area, like many others, travel to Russia for seasonal migration, but Valijon acted differently.As a young economist, Valijon realized that the conventional methods of farming in his region were often met with challenges such as fluctuating market prices and unpredictable weather patterns. In search of a sustainable solution, he stumbled upon the idea of mushroom cultivation—a venture that would lead him to success beyond his imagination.In 2024, after completing his degree in accounting and digital economy at the Tajik National University, Valijon practiced his banking knowledge in Tajikistan’s Humo Bank. But after receiving information about the World Food Programme (WFP) and its support to local producers and farmers, it was very interesting for him to participate in innovative projects. Especially, his interest in mushroom cultivation was increased during a workshop organized by WFP and its agronomists, which highlighted the high demand for mushrooms in urban markets. With limited resources but immense determination, Valijon decided to experiment with growing mushrooms. He started small, utilizing a portion of his family’s land and an abandoned shed that he converted into a makeshift mushroom farm. He received the mushroom bags and construction materials for producing room from WFP with the support from the American people. Later, he invested his savings into buying mycelium (seeds) and setting up the necessary infrastructure to maintain the ideal growing conditions.The initial phase of Valijon’s venture was fraught with challenges. The learning curve was steep; sometimes he faced issues with humidity control. Additionally, the lack of knowledge about marketing his produce posed another hurdle. Valijon realized that he needed to equip himself with better information and skills. He turned to online resources. He wanted to attend more workshops and seek advice from experienced mushroom farmers outside of Tajikistan. He used the money earned from his farm. He also visited some mushroom cultivation ventures for practical classes.  After several attempts, he finally succeeded in harvesting his first substantial yield. The satisfaction of seeing his hard work come to fruition was immense. Valijon quickly learned how to refine his techniques, focusing on quality production and efficient harvesting methods. With the growing demand for his mushrooms, Valijon reinvested his profits into expanding his operations. He plans to introduce different varieties of mushrooms to further increase his customer base. His farm became a hub for knowledge exchange, where he would teach other farmers about mushroom cultivation and share his experiences.In 2025, WFP conducted a master class for mushroom producers to re-engage and motivate them to strengthen their technical capacity. The master class was led by Valijon Mirzoev and brought together other project beneficiaries from Shahrinav, Yovon, and Varzob districts and Vahdat town for peer-to-peer learning. Through this initiative, WFP was able to connect the participants with a successful peer, fostering knowledge exchange and peer-support to sustain their businesses. Today, Valijon Mirzoev’s mushroom farm is a thriving enterprise that generates substantial income, not only for himself but also for many families in his village. His journey is a testament to the power of innovation in agriculture, demonstrating that alternative farming practices can lead to sustainable livelihoods. “Valijon’s journey is a powerful example of how innovation, persistence, and technical support can unlock new opportunities for young farmers in rural areas. His success in mushroom production proves that even in regions with limited arable land, sustainable agriculture is not only possible — it can thrive. By turning a simple shed into a productive farm and sharing his knowledge with others, he is helping transform local food systems and inspiring a new generation of agricultural entrepreneurs”, says WFP agronomist Dalerjon Nabiev.“Now, Valijon is not only a mushroom producer, but he also produces mushroom bags for selling and provides advice to other farmers regarding mushroom production and preparation of mushroom bags. Looking ahead, Valijon plans to further expand his farm and engage all seven members of his family in dealing with mushroom cultivation”, says Muqimjon Muminov, project beneficiary from Shahrinav District who attended Valijon’s master class.This journey from a young farmer to a successful entrepreneur in mushroom cultivation is a compelling narrative of resilience, innovation, and community empowerment. Valijon’s story highlights the potential of alternative farming practices in transforming rural economies and inspiring a new generation of farmers. As Tajikistan continues to grapple with agricultural challenges, Valijon's success serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating that with the right approach, the future of farming can indeed be bright. 

With warmth to children and dedication to work, Dilorom Karimova and Zulfiya Alieva earned well-deserved recognition – the Best School Cook award – by turning everyday school meals into something special.As the new week starts, the appetizing scent of fresh-baked bread and warm soup drifts through school hallways across Tajikistan. For the cooks Dilorom Karimova from School #33 and Zulfiya Alieva from School #44 in the Farkhor district, this is more than just a working routine. In the rhythm of the school kitchen, they found their voice.The winners of the national Best School Cook Contest 2023 and 2024 – an annual event organized by WFP Tajikistan and Social and Industrial Foodservice Institute (SIFI) and designed to enhance school cooks’ competencies and encourage nutritious meals for children – agree that children’s smiles are the biggest appreciation to their work. “Sometimes children write little verses to express their gratitude to the cook’s work – it touches me deeply and gives inspiration”, says Dilorom Karimova, the winner of the Best School Cook Contest 2023. Since 2022, The Best School Cook Contest has been held as part of broader WFP’s efforts to promote healthy diets at schools and enhance the nutritional value of children’s meals in Tajikistan. This event is a platform for knowledge-sharing, creativity, and national recognition for school cooks.Dilorom remembers the first years of working at school – in the 2000s, she prepared meals for more than 400 children. To make sure that every child would receive a nutritious meal, she cooked late into the night. With a smile, she says that after 25 years, now cooking for 350 schoolchildren and her growing family of 8 children, 22 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild no longer feels like a challenge. It is simply a part of who she is.Dilorom believes that it is possible to create a masterpiece from simple and accessible ingredients – potatoes or pulses – fantasy and practice will help. Like any cook, she has her culinary secrets. But there is one she freely shares — the secret to making every meal delicious and every workday a joy:“I approach work with sincerity and put my heart into it – that’s my true secret”. Her colleague from School #44 Zulfiya Alieva, who has become the Best School Cook in 2024, adds: “A cook’s task goes beyond making food — it’s about giving love and care to children and welcoming them with an open heart”.Her career as a school cook began 2 years ago, and at that time, she had already become a high-class professional, proudly carrying her well-earned status. Cooking has been Zulfiya’s passion since childhood — and today, she brings the same love and dedication to her work as she does when cooking for her two daughters.Zulfiya says that school cooks’ work is about children. When making a menu, she asks in advance about their preferences for the week to come. Her kindness is shown in every detail – the way she serves each plate, gently wipes up soup spilled by an energetic boy, and speaks to the children with calm warmth.Zulfiya emphasizes the empowering impact of the Best School Cook Contest in diversifying school meals, strengthening cooking skills and creativity, and fostering the use of local products.For her, the victory in the competition became an incentive for further development as a cook, while Dilorom points out that it was both an honor and a proof that 25 years of hard work had all been worth it.Dilorom and Zulfiya genuinely care to make meals well-balanced, diversified, nutritious, and packed with vitamins. They use fresh and dried fruits and vegetables grown locally — either from the school gardens or brought in by children’s parents – and encourage other cooks to do so.Among the many sources Zulfiya finds culinary inspiration in, the WFP Tajikistan School Meals Recipe Book is one she returns to often:“I address the School Meals Recipe Book to find fresh ideas of what to cook for children at school and for my family, my daughters”.  Dilorom and Zulfiya note that, after the competition, support from parents and concerned citizens has grown, as the children are now nourished by true champions of school nutrition. Yet both point out that having a school bakery in Farkhor would significantly enhance school cooks’ work.Despite all the remaining difficulties – electricity outages, especially during the winter season, long working shifts in the kitchen, heavy pots – their faces shine with energy and motivation. The example of Dilorom and Zulfiya is a testament of enduring love for what they do. Their journey speaks for thousands of school cooks of Tajikistan – whose hands work early, whose hearts stay open, and whose love is served on every plate.

At the end of April, Fariza Dzhobirova attended a Model United Nations Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation in Tajikistan’s capital, Dushanbe, where she represented Switzerland.For Ms. Dzhobirova, it was a rehearsal of sorts for the actual High-level Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation which began on Thursday in Dushanbe. There, she will serve as a panel member representing her own country.“The [Model UN] conference gave me a platform to raise my voice, collaborate with like-minded peers from across the region and develop policy recommendations that we hope will influence real-world decisions,” she said.The High-level Conference on Glaciers’ Preservation, hosted by the Government of Tajikistan and supported by a variety of United Nations agencies, will work to underline the extreme urgency of melting glaciers, elevating it as a global climate and development challenge.  Youth voices are the present and the futureBefore the conference, we sat down with Ms. Dzhobirova to discuss what motivates her climate activism. What inspired you to get involved in the climate movement?Growing up in Tajikistan, where more than 90% of our freshwater comes from glaciers, I’ve seen how climate change is already impacting people’s lives. Rivers are shrinking, water is becoming less accessible, and natural disasters like landslides and floods are affecting more and more communities.I’ve met a family who lost their home because of mudflow. I saw a teenage girl from that family of the same age as me that had totally different problems because of this climate-related disaster. I was thinking about my classes. She was thinking about how to survive.And I know there are many examples similar to this - farmers whose land can no longer be irrigated and children whose futures are at risk. Seeing this pain and injustice made it impossible for me to stay silent or uninvolved.Participating in the upcoming Glaciers’ Preservation conference means a lot to me. It’s about raising the voices of people who are often left out of global discussions. For me, it’s a chance to speak on behalf of my generation and my country, and to show that young people are ready to be part of the solution.What message do you hope to share at the conference about the impact of climate change on your community and generation?Being invited to speak is a great responsibility for me. It’s a chance to represent not only Tajikistan, but the voice of a generation.My message is that young people are not just the future — we are the present, and we are ready to contribute today. Climate change is not only about the environment — it’s about how we live, how we work, how we learn. It affects our opportunities, our mental health, our ability to plan for the future. And yet, many young people are still excluded from decision-making processes.At the conference, I want to encourage leaders and policymakers to truly listen not just to the facts and data, but to the experiences and hopes of young people. When you give youth a platform, you don’t just invest in their potential — you strengthen the resilience and sustainability of entire communities.Youth voices are becoming increasingly important in global climate conversations. How do you see the role of young people in shaping solutions?I truly believe that young people have a unique role to play in shaping more just, inclusive and forward-looking climate solutions. We bring fresh ideas, the courage to question outdated systems and a strong sense of responsibility for the future.In countries like Tajikistan, where glaciers are directly connected to people’s livelihoods, youth are already stepping up. What we need now is more trust and investment in young people. We don’t expect to solve everything alone, but we do hope to be included — in dialogue, in decision-making, and in designing real solutions.Protecting glaciers and water resources is not just a technical challenge; it’s a human one. By working together — across generations and borders — we can make our region stronger, more resilient, and more united in the face of climate change.