Site in Tajikistan recognized as Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems

8 July, Rome -  An integrated mountain agropastoral system in Tajikistan has become the first Central Asian addition to the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems, with a pine tree agroforestry system and traditional bamboo and fishery system in the Republic of Korea and an agrosilvopastoral system in Portugal also recognized.

“As it extends to new regions and countries, the GIAHS network is once again demonstrating its distinctive role in showcasing agricultural systems that promote traditions nurtured by communities and ways of pursuing their livelihoods in harmony with nature,” said Kaveh Zahedi, Director of the Office of Climate Change, Biodiversity and environment at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). “As we confront the climate crisis and loss of biodiversity, the contribution age old ways to build resilience and use biodiversity sustainably is all the more vital in transforming our agrifood systems to keep up with the challenges.”

The systems were formally designated under FAO’s flagship programme during a meeting of the GIAHS Scientific Advisory Group held from 7 to 8 of July 2025. The newest additions bring FAO’s worldwide agricultural heritage network to 99 systems in 29 countries around the globe. Along with the first for Tajikistan, the newly designated systems take the number in the Republic of Korea to nine and in Portugal to two.

With rising interest from across the globe the GIAHS designations are set to exceed 100 by the time a Certificate Award Ceremony will take place on 31 October in the context of FAO’s 80th anniversary celebrations.

Almosi Valley integrated agropastoral system adapted to mountain conditions, Tajikistan

This integrated agropastoral system combines seasonal transhumance of sheep with the cultivation of grapes, cereals, orchards, and vegetables across harsh mountain landscapes. Shaped over centuries, it supports food and livelihood security, conserves agrobiodiversity, and preserves cultural heritage. Rooted in ancestral knowledge, it sustains resilient communities facing soil erosion, water scarcity, and climate variability.

The valley hosts diverse ecosystems and a wide range of crops and livestock, including landraces of wheat, barley, and vegetables, and the local Hisori sheep breed. The Pink Toifi grape is central to the valley’s identity, valued for its quality and processed into raisins, syrup (shirini), juice, and wine. 

Farming is guided by ancestral practices, including contour planting, organic fertilization, the Muchal calendar, guiding agriculture based on environmental cues, and ancient irrigation methods to conserve water.

Community management is coordinated through mahalla (neighbourhood) committees, family farms, cooperatives, and collective farms, ensuring knowledge transmission, shared resource use, and cultural continuity.