Ehanced livelihoods of rural Tajik families help overcome the COVID-19 crisis 28 January 2021, Dushanbe – Agriculture has a central place in the culture of mountainous Tajikistan. In fact, more than 60 percent of Tajik people work in agriculture, cultivating the country’s arable land that extends over 850 thousand hectares. The Nurobod district, located in the Rasht valley, boasts beautiful landscapes with high agricultural biodiversity that contributes to its resilient ecosystems. Yet, like in other rural areas, the life here has its beauties and hardships alike. “It is a hard time now for everyone, including farmers, doctors, teachers, and other rural residents due to the COVID-19 pandemic situation,” said Bukhori Saidov, a farmer, who benefitted from a European Union-funded FAO project. “However, I think we are very lucky, because at the beginning of the crisis, when all borders were closed and no one could enter or leave, we got tremendous support as members of the Nuri Nurobod cooperative.” Bukhori Saidov is not only a member of the Nuri Nurobod cooperative, which was established in early 2020, but he is also a paramedic in charge of the medical station in the Obi Lurd village in the northern Nurobod district that serves more than 3 500 people. He is married and father of six children. Bukhori has about six hectares of land in Javchi and Kahbit areas, both in the highlands, where he is engaged in crop production and horticulture, as well as livestock production. Turning a challenge into a possibility “When I got married and my children were born, life became challenging as it was hard to maintain the family with my monthly wage. At that time, I decided to do something else,” recalls Bukhori. I don’t come from a farmer family, my father worked in the law enforcement, and haven’t practice traditional farming before. Still, I knew that agriculture can be a good solution and ensure a sustainable income and better livelihood for my family.” Bukhori was eager to learn. Every day, he spent six to seven hours on working and learning in the field for his idea and ambitions to flourish. Bukhori tried to explore the intricacies of this sphere. He observed similarities between humans and plants, since growing plants is similar to humans; they both can get sick and need treatment. The light at the end of the tunnel When Bukhori Saidov found out about a cooperative being established in Nurobod district with additional benefits, including distribution of a quality potato seed, construction of a storage facility, and further opportunities, he immediately decided to be part of it. He understood that this initiative can improve potato seed availability and improve the food security of the rural population, particularly important during the COVID-19 crisis. Because the high yield potato seeds enable small-scale farmers to increase productivity and will result in greater availability of potatoes for local consumption, Bukhori grew very enthusiastic. “It is difficult to find high quality potato seeds due to limited availability and high price, especially when the demand for seed is high ahead of the planting season. In addition to this, other challenges such as access to quality pesticides, fertilizers, and other inputs often prevent farmers from attaining higher yields,” pointed out Bukhori. “For the past several years, we have usually planted the Picasso variety potato seed that had better yields in comparison with the local potato varieties. Actually, I harvested no more than 25–30 tonnes of potato per hectare.” As part of the project supported by the European Union, cooperatives in Nurobod and Shahristan districts received a Dutch potato seed called Red Scarlet. With expert know-how provided by FAO, both cooperatives promoted potato seed banks, so local farmers had an opportunity to learn about innovative approaches for producing potato seeds. Training sessions were organized for members of the cooperatives on the advanced technologies of potato growing, fertilizing methods, and developing irrigation schemes. “I received 1 tonne of elite seed potato Red Scarlett and planted it on 0.24 hectares, from which I harvested over 30 tonnes of potatoes. This was the best result and I am very proud of this achievement. I gave 3 tonnes of seed potatoes to the cooperative for the next sowing campaign that are now stored in a warehouse. The rest of the harvest is for our own consumption and part of it I sell as there are many buyers who are interested in this potato variety,” said Bukhori during the interview. “It is a very delicious variety of potato with a good yield, and if we do growing, fertilizing, and irrigation properly, we all can have a record harvest." ©FAO/Bunafsha Azimova Good prospects for the future The project will continue to support cooperatives’ development. In the future, logistical centers will be built to provide cooperatives with sorting and processing equipment, ensuring farmers with access to machinery and other services, and improve product marketing. “It is a very delicious variety of potato with a good yield, and if we do growing, fertilizing, and irrigation properly, we all can have a record harvest. I hope for positive changes with the support of the cooperative. Next year, I intend to expand the area for planting this seed potato.” The EU-funded project is supporting Tajikistan’s agriculture reform programme, which aims to foster and support farmers’ economic and social growth. It also encourages establishment and development of effective and efficient cooperatives. Last year two cooperative unions in Nurobod and Shahriston districts received 60 tonnes of Red Scarlet potato seeds from the Netherlands, incorporated altogether 60 farmers as members. The total costs for purchasing seed potato was USD 90 000 and overall the farmers received 803 tonnes of potato, from which 482 tonnes are seed potato of the first reproduction.   LINKS: FAO, EU provide 60 tonnes of potato seeds to Tajik farmers http://www.fao.org/europe/news/detail-news/en/c/1274360/ Stronger linkages of cities and rural areas back efficient food systems in Tajikistan http://www.fao.org/europe/news/detail-news/en/c/1365924/ GEF allotment helps Azerbaijan and Tajikistan http://www.fao.org/europe/news/detail-news/en/c/1364299/ Ensuring quality seeds when the need is greatest http://www.fao.org/europe/news/detail-news/en/c/1331170/ Matching grants help migrants’ businesses take off in Tajikistan http://www.fao.org/fao-stories/article/en/c/1287874/   Journalists & editors:
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Rights of the Child, to name a few, entitle children to a good education, a safe home, the provision of basic needs such as food, clothing, housing, and health, and protection from all kinds of danger. For the Convention to be effective, however, children need to understand the rights to which they are entitled. In Tajikistan, a survey conducted by the Center for Strategic Studies under the President and UNICEF in 2018 revealed that only 15 per cent of adolescents could name a single child right. This presents a major issue: as the vast majority of children are unaware of their rights, they are unable to recognize and even less equipped to defend themselves if or when these rights are violated. “Because of the child rights corner, I understand that every child has rights from the moment they are born.” Nozanini Abdusamad, student To address this issue, UNICEF in close collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Science and Centres of Additional Education has installed ‘Child Rights Corners’ in 100 schools across Tajikistan to increase the child-rights-awareness of high school children nationwide. “I think that after seeing this corner, children’s minds will be broadened and their knowledge of the world will expand, and they will be able to stand up for their rights.”  Aminova Munavvar, principal of school #34 in Khisterverz District. These Child Rights Corners provide schoolchildren with information on the Convention on the Rights of the Child, its key principles and articles, and on the Ombudsman for Child Rights in Tajikistan - the designated body for protecting children’s rights around the country. There is also a dedicated ‘postal box’ in each Corner. Using this postal box, schoolchildren are able to submit anonymous complaints to the Child Rights Commissioner if they believe their rights have been violated. “The corner is very informative. It helps to learn about the history and articles of the CRC” Davlatnazarova Nigina, Presidential school of Khorog Due to their vulnerability to exploitation and abuse, children need special protection to survive, thrive, and reach their full potential. This is why UNICEF Tajikistan is working alongside the Government of Tajikistan, empowering the nation’s children by building the awareness of youth on the universal rights to which they are entitled. 

As part of these efforts, UN Volunteer Sodam Baek, whose assignment is fully funded by the Republic of Korea, joined the International Organization of Migration (IOM) recently. She shares how she helps migrants receive verified news and information useful to ensure the security and welfare of their families in Tajikistan. Tajikistan is the country of origin for large numbers of migrant workers who seek employment abroad. It is hard to find a single Tajik citizen who does not have a family member or friend currently working abroad. In many cases, however, their journeys are connected with risks of social disintegration and human trafficking. Despite the comprehensive efforts to address the remaining challenges in regards to migration management, Tajik migrants and their families continue to face a lot of difficulties both abroad and at home. In order to combat the problem, IOM has been conducting programmes that not only respect the dignity and wellbeing of migrants but also protect their lives – and one of the solutions that they have found is to make verified and useful information available to vulnerable groups. As UN Volunteer Associate Communications Officer, Sodam Baek serves as part of the IOM communications team. Her colleagues conduct research in Tajik and Russian and Sodam generates content for migrants on popular platforms such as Odnoklassniki. This can include governmental announcements, laws, success stories, or YouTube vlogs about challenges migrants face. The primary purpose of my social media project is to provide migrants with the latest and essential information for their welfare and to improve the public awareness of IOM’s work in Tajikistan, --Sodam Baek, UN Volunteer Associate Communications Officer with IOM Sodam joined the UN Communication Group team in Tajikistan just four months ago. However, within such a short period she has already made notable contributions in almost all areas of the joint work. From monitoring the media for precise, accurate and regular information to participation in various campaigns held by the office of UN Resident Coordinator in the country and thematic groups, Sodam has been making supporting her team, organization, and most importantly, the community. Sodam is responsive and supportive for every initiative. We have always enjoyed cooperation and generous and professional support from UNV colleagues – both under the UNV programme itself and under different agencies and projects. Looking forward to fruitful work! --Parviz Boboev, Coordination and Development Analyst, Programme Communications and Advocacy, UN Communication Group As part of IOM's support to the Government of Tajikistan, Sodam helps to establish safe and well-managed migration procedures and to provide assistance to returned migrants and communities affected by migration in Tajikistan. For instance, she works on success stories and videos about Tajik-Afghan Integration within Resilience and Reform Building Project (TAIRR). The project was funded by the Department for International Development (DFID) of the United Kingdom.  I have always enjoyed learning new tools for extracurricular activities. My first internship in the United States for fundraising and donor engagement helped me to learn essential aspects of public engagement that I am using now. --Sodam Baek Sodam studied anthropology and initially wanted to work in museums. However, during intensive search for what suits her soul the most, Sodam got inspired to continue learning and pursue a master’s degree in development studies.  Sodam Baek, Associate Communications Officer, International UN Volunteer with IOM Tajikistan. Personal archive. "Recently, Sodam volunteered to be a member of a panel to select the best drawings and videos submitted for a contest dedicated to the UN’s 75th anniversary and UN Day celebration in Tajikistan," Parviz shares. This is not an easy task to look through hundred of colorful and meaningful artworks depicting the visions of children and youth about the world we want by 2045. And it’s all is done despite the distance working arrangements.

Getting outdoors is a favourite pastime of adults and children alike. But with the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, parents are faced with navigating how to enjoy being outside while protecting their family’s health. Consider this your “cheat sheet” for safer outdoor fun! Can COVID-19 spread outdoors? Unfortunately, yes. COVID-19 can spread anywhere where you may come into close contact with an infected person. Remember, the virus spreads mainly via respiratory droplets that are released from an infected person through coughing, sneezing, talking or singing – which then get into the mouth, nose or eyes of people who are nearby. Short-range airborne (or aerosol) transmission may also be possible, particularly in poorly ventilated, crowded indoor places. People may also become infected by touching their mouth, nose or eyes, after touching surfaces contaminated with the virus.  Based on this and what we know about the virus, the risk of transmission is considered much lower outdoors compared to enclosed indoor spaces, but what is also important are the precautions people are taking – keeping at least one metre away from each other, wearing a fabric mask near others, frequently washing hands and self-checking for any COVID-19 symptoms before going out. How can my family safely spend time outside together? Staying physically active is one of the best ways every member of the family can keep their minds and bodies healthy. By taking some key steps, you can help your family minimize the risk of exposure to the COVID-19 virus. When planning outings, try to avoid peak times and crowded settings and take routes that are less congested wherever possible. Consider packing a hand sanitizer with at least 60 per cent alcohol, disinfecting wipes, tissues, extra fabric masks and a resealable bag to store the mask while not in use (e.g. while eating or drinking). Before leaving the house, check to make sure all family members feel well and are symptom-free. Remind each other to follow key precautions while outside, such as staying at least one metre away from others, wearing a fabric mask when close to people outside your household, not touching your face (eyes, nose, mouth) or the mask surface, and frequently washing or sanitizing your hands. If you decide to eat outside, bring your own food and utensils. If this is not possible, choose the safest food option, such as take-out rather than eating indoors. Don’t forget to wash or sanitize your hands before eating. Once you come home, make sure to first wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Is it safe for our family to spend time in a small group of close friends? How do you decide whether or not someone is safe to spend time with? Every family has to take decisions based on their own situation. Here are some key factors to consider: Keep updated on the level of COVID-19 transmission in your local community. In general, the higher the rate of transmission, the higher the risk of potential exposure in public settings. If you live with people who have an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 (older family members, grandparents, family members with underlying medical conditions), the whole family should take extra precautions to protect them. This may include limiting your children’s contact with other people (including playdates), or if this is difficult (such as when children return to school), keeping your child apart from those family members wherever possible. For any in-person socializing, it is best to keep it outdoors and keep it short. Keep the group very small with the same family member or friend who you are confident also practices everyday preventive measures. Communicate your decision to your child and take time to explain why you made that decision – and why it matters. Whatever your decision may be, it’s important to keep an open line of communication with your child. Encourage them to share any concerns and be honest if they didn’t follow the rules. This is important especially for older children and adolescents, who may be more prone to taking risks or feeling peer pressure to socialize. Try to guide and redirect them with science (what we know, what we don’t know), and with empathy and compassion. Is it safe to use a public toilet? Encourage your family to use the toilet before leaving your home and try to minimize using public ones, as you don’t know how crowded they may be. If you need to use a public restroom, keep a distance of at least 1 metre from others, wear a mask and wash your hands with soap and water immediately afterwards. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 per cent alcohol. Is it safe for my child to go swimming (both indoors and outdoors)? There is currently no evidence that the COVID-19 virus can spread through natural bodies of water or recreational waters such as pools. If you are considering going swimming with your family, first check the latest guidelines from your local authorities, which may vary depending on the local level of disease transmission. If pools and beaches are allowed to be open, here are some things to consider: Location: How safe the swimming area is will also depend on if there is crowding, and the actions of the people who are there. Timing: Select a time when it is likely to be least crowded. Your children’s age: Will they be able to maintain physical distancing?   Prevention measures: Check to see if the swim area has measures in place to prevent the spread of the virus and other health hazards, such as steps to avoid crowding, cleaning and disinfection, ventilation if indoors and safe water systems. If you decide to go swimming, leave early if it starts to get crowded, minimize any time spent in enclosed spaces such as locker rooms, avoid eating in the swim area and supervise your child at all times.