FinalReport-SupportinAddressingSocialConsequencesofTransition(final version)

Support in Addressing the Social Consequences of Transition in the Ferghana Valley
EUROPEAID/119689/C/SV/Multi – Final Report – November 2006 1
The European Union’s Tacis programme
for the Kyrgyz Republic and Republic of Tajikistan
This project is funded by
the European Union A project implemented by
Transtec SA and ACTED
TACIS PROJECT
Support in Addressing the Social
Consequences of Transition in the
Ferghana Valley -
Final Report
24 November, 2006
Batken
EuropeAid/119689/C/SV/Multi

Form 1.2. REPORT COVER PAGE
Project Title : Support in Addressing the Social Consequences of Transition in the
Ferghana Valley
Project Number : EUROPEAID/119689/C/SV/Multi
Country : Kyrgyz Republic and Republic of Tajikistan
Local operators EC Consultant
Name(s) : Government of Batken (KG) Transtec. S.A.
Region
Address : 1, Sadykov Street 75, Avenue de Tyras
715100 Batken 1120 Brussels
Kyrgyz Republic Belgium
Contact person: Mr Akjol Madaliev Mr Michele Cervesato
First Deputy Governor Managing Director
Project Senior Liaison Officer
Signature : ___________________ ___________________
Name(s) : Government of Sughd (TJ)
Region
Address : 45, Rachmon Nabiev Prospect
735700 Khujand
Republic of Tajikistan
Contact person: Mr Anvar Jakubov
Advisor to Governor
Project Senior Liaison Officer
Signature : ___________________
Date of report: 24 November 2006
Reporting period: 8 January 2005- 26 November 2006
Author of report: Emilio Valli, Project Team Leader

EC M & E team _________________ _________________ _____________
[name] [signature] [date]
EC Delegation _________________ _________________ _____________
[name] [signature] [date]
Tacis Bureau _________________ _________________ _____________
[Task Manager] [name] [signature] [date]

0. Table of Contents
1. Table of abbreviations ……………………… ………………………………………… p. 5
2. Project synopsis pp. 6-7
3. Summary of project progress since the start of the project pp. 8-9
PROJECT PROGRESS IN FINAL PROJECT PERIOD
4. Local capacity building ……………………………………………. pp. 10-11
4.1 Short report on activities carried out
4.2 Achievements against planned results
4.3 Deviations from original planning and reasons
4.4 Comments on constraints/assumptions
5. Supporting market integration ……………………………………………………… pp. 12-14
6. Review and dissemination……………………………………………………….… pp.15-17
7. Project management………………………………………………………… …………… p.17
OVERALL REPORT ON THE TOTAL PROJECT
8. Local capacity building……………………………………………………… pp. 18-20
8.1 Main activities undertaken
9. Supporting market integration…………………. ………………………………… pp. 21-24
10. Review and dissemination…………………………………………………. pp. 25-27
11. Project management………………………………………………………. p. 28
12. LESSONS LEARNT AND RECOMMENDATIONS………………………………… pp.29-31.
FORM 2.2 - PROJECT PROGRESS REPORT
FORM 2.3 - RESOURCE UTILISATION REPORT
FORM 2.4 - OUTPUT PERFORMANCE REPORT
FORM 3.2 - PROJECT COMPLETION REPORT
FORM 3.3 - OUTPUT PERFORMANCE SUMMARY

1. Table of Abbreviations
ACTED Association Cooperation Technique et Development
AIC (s) Advisory and Information Center (s)
AMP Agricultural Marketing and Processing
CEEBA Centre for Energy Efficiency Building
EC European Commission
EU European Union
GTZ German Technical Cooperation
LCB Local Capacity Building (component)
LSHGs Local Self-Help Groups
LST Local Short-Term (experts)
LLT Local Long-Term (experts)
IR Inception Report
JICA Japan International Co-operation Agency
MEDA Methodist Economic Development Agency
m/d man-days
MoJ Ministry of Justice
NGO Non Governmental Organization
OXUS Micro-credit bank established by ACTED
OSCE Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe
PRA Participatory Rural Appraisal
PSC Project Steering Committee
RA(s) Rural Association(s)
RAC Rural Associations Council
RAS Rural Advisory Services
Tacis Technical assistance to commonwealth of independent
states
SME Small and Medium Enterprises
TL Team Leader
ToR Terms of Reference

2. Project Synopsis
Project Title : Support in Addressing the Social Consequences of Transition in the
Ferghana Valley
Project Number : EUROPEAID/119689/C/SV/Multi
Countries : Kyrgyz Republic and Republic of Tajikistan
Project overall
objective :
The overall objective of the project is to support the economic and social
development of vulnerable populations in the Ferghana Valley in a
participatory and sustainable way.
Project specific
objective :
To contribute to the improvement of poor rural livelihoods in the target
districts (Djabor Rasulov and Isfara in Sughd Oblast – Tajikistan and
Leilek and Batken in Batken Oblast – Kyrgyz Republic) through new
income generating activities and capacity building of local authorities
and rural communities.
Project
beneficiaries:
The final beneficiaries of the project will be the low-income population
living in the selected rural municipalities of Toguz-bulak (Kyrgyz
Republic) and Kulkent (Tajikistan) located within the above mentioned
target districts.
The intermediate beneficiaries will be local authorities and civil society
structures from the four target districts that will participate in the project,
as well as small agricultural businesses and farmers groups that will
benefit directly from the project action.
Planned outputs-
expected results :
Result 1: The ability of local government officials to prepare strategies
and plans to reduce the incidence of poverty with the participation of
local communities is increased in the selected pilot rural areas.
Result 2: Sales and incomes of small farmers and agricultural
businesses in the selected pilot areas are increased thanks to better
market integration.
Result 3: Poverty reduction and development models at
local/community level, which may be replicated in other areas of the
Ferghana Valley and beyond
Project activities: Activities Related to Result 1-Local Capacity Building
1.1 Supporting the creation of “umbrella” rural associations at village
level
1.2 Supporting the creation of rural associations councils at
municipal level
1.3 Strengthening the capacity of rural associations and
local government structures

Activities Related to Result 2-Supporting Market Integration
2.1 Supporting the diversification and enhancement of agricultural
products
2.2 Assisting with building the capacity of selected co-operative groups
2.3 Strengthening information, training and advisory facilities
2.4 Assisting with the development of pilot micro-finance
schemes
Activities Related to Result 3- Review and Dissemination
3.1 Carry-out project reviews
3.2 Disseminate information, techniques and lessons learnt
Project start date 26.11.2004
Project duration: 24 months

3. Summary of Project Progress since the Start of the Project
• The project kick-off meeting took place on 8 January 2005 in Batken and Sughd Oblasts.
Offices were set-up in Batken and Khujand within three weeks from the kick-off meeting.
• The first draft IR was submitted to the EC Project Manager on 28 February 2005. The final
version was submitted and approved during June 2005.
• Project activity in Batken oblast was suspended for 3 weeks between 18 March and 7 April
due to the perceived risks posed to the expatriate staff by the unfolding of the political events
in the Kyrgyz Republic. Project activity in Tajikistan continued without interruption.
• 29 trainings in ‘small business management’ for start-up businesses were delivered by local
trainers and the international SME expert between June and December 2005 in both target
regions. 510 persons attended the trainings.
• A Study tour to Europe (Belgium, Netherlands, Estonia and Latvia) took place in August
2005 and involved 10 participants from the 2 target regions.
• A mid-term review of the project activity and a second kick off meeting were implemented in
January 2006 following the cancellation of the small grant facility and the appointment of a
new team leader at the end December 2005. Two project pilot areas were identified for
implementation of the project activity in the second year-i.e. Toguz-bulak (Leylek district)
and Kulkent (Isfara district). A socio-economic PRA was undertaken in February 2006 in the
2 pilot areas. The adjusted project strategy/synopsis was validated by the PSC meeting of
24 February 2006. ToRs were amended accordingly and related contract addendum was
signed on 26 July 2006.
• An information package on legal environment for SMEs in Tajikistan was prepared in
January 2006 and disseminated.
• 5 low-cost pilot advanced units of solar energy equipment for drying apricots and vegetables
were constructed and tested in the second year. A manual illustrating the techniques of
construction and cost of materials of the advanced units was produced and presented in a
seminar during April 2006.
• All 6 lots of equipment were delivered between end March and early June 2006.
• 75 trainings to support the creation and capacity-building of ‘rural associations’ and ‘farmers
co-operatives’ were delivered by local trainers and the AMP expert between November 2005
and November 2006. This activity resulted in the creation in Toguz-bulak of 5 “umbrella”
village RAs and 1 RAC registered as legal entities.
• 15 participatory trainings in strategy development for local government officials and local
associations were implemented in both Kulkent and Toguz-bulak between August and
November 2006. One long-term socio-economic development strategy (2007-16) and a
village development plan (2006-09) were prepared.
• 13 trainings in agricultural best practices-i.e. preparing the plantation, planting the fruit trees,
irrigation, use of fertilisers, plant protection, shaping and pruning, fencing-were delivered
between February and November 2006 to farmers and rural field advisors in both Kulkent
and Toguz-bulak.
• The project supplied 925 young apple trees and 75 rootstocks to establish 2 fruit demo-
orchards in Toguz-bulak and Kulkent. Trees and rootstocks were planted end March 2006. A
long-term financial plan was developed for the demo-station in Toguz-bulak in September
2006.

• 2 AICs were established in Toguz-bulak and Kulkent between March and May 2006 and the
project assisted with preparing the business plans, setting up the management structures,
training the local staff and equipping the premises with two PC units and, in the case of the
AIC Kulkent, with internet connection.
• 239.682 seeds of European tomato hybrid varieties were supplied and tested at a seed farm
in Kulkent between March and September 2006
• A hygienic retail meat shop was established in Kara-bulak and equipped with cold storage.
• 2 micro-credit reports and a draft financial plan for a credit scheme to build rotating storage
facilities for agricultural crops (potatoes) and fruits (apples) were prepared and submitted to
OXUS micro-credit bank.

PROJECT PROGRESS IN FINAL PROJECT PERIOD
(see Form 2.2 Project Progress Report; Form 2.3 Resource Utilisation Report; Form2.4 Output
Performance Report)
4. Local capacity building
4.1. Short report on activities carried out
Activity 1.1: Supporting the creation of “umbrella” rural associations at village level
An intensive activity of social mobilization was carried out in the ayil-okmoty of Toguz-bulak. A
series of 50 formal and informal participatory trainings were implemented to support the
formation and build the capacity of 4 “umbrella” village RAs (Kara-bulak, Minjigach, Toguz-
bulak, Aibike) and of 1 “umbrella” RA for the two confining villages of Aikol and Gordoi. Legal
assistance was also provided with the registration of the 5 associations as legal entities. The
registration process was finalized during November 2006. In a very short-time the ‘umbrella’ RA
of the villages of Aikol and Gordoi raised the equivalent of 2000 USD from its members. These
resources having pledged towards implementing the Village Development Plan (see activity 1.3
below) and further developing the demo-station (see activity 2.1)
Activity 1.2: Supporting the creation of rural associations councils at municipal level
Assistance was provided to design and implement organizational chart and the mechanisms for
selection of the representatives from the “umbrella” village associations to the RAC in the ayil-
okmoty of Toguz-bulak. The project also assisted with statute development and registration of
the RAC as a legal entity.
Activity 1.3: Strengthening the capacity of rural associations and local government structures
Trainings were delivered on ‘advocacy and lobbying’, ‘social partnership’, ‘associations and their
environment’, ‘writing application for grants’ as well as ‘work planning and monitoring’,
‘managing documentation’, ‘membership development’ and other relevant topics to strengthen
the capacity of the RAs in Toguz-bulak. Many of the trainings were attended by local
government executive officials and elected deputies to the local assembly (kenesh), several of
which have, on an individual basis, joined the RAs.
The project has also supported the design and formulation of a Village Development Plan for
Aikol through 4 participatory seminars. The local authorities have started disseminating the plan
to other villages as a ‘model’.
In the jamoat of Kulkent the project supported the process of design, formulation and translation
in Tajik and English languages of a long-term development strategy (2007-2016) and the action
plan for its implementation. The strategy preparation was achieved through a series of 11
participatory trainings involving a working group of 21 representatives from civil society and
local government. The strategy will be presented to the local legislative assembly (majilis) in
December and its adoption is expected to unlock public funding for its implementation.
4.2. Achievements compared to planned results
Planned result:
6 RAs are set-up and working.
Achievement:
During the final period 5 RAs in Toguz-bulak ayil-okmoty have developed their statute,
registered with the MoJ and formulated a work plan.

Planned result:
2 RACs set up and working
Achievement:
Organisational chart and statute of the RAC in Toguz-bulak ayil-okmoty were developed.
Representatives from the village RAs to the RAC were selected. RAC was registered as legal
entity.
Planned result:
70 trainings delivered
Achievement:
Only in the final period a total of 65 trainings were delivered -i.e.15 trainings in strategy
development and 50 trainings to build the capacity of RAs.
Planned result:
10-15 case studies developed
Achievement:
Over 10 case studies in strategy planning were developed during the trainings for the
preparation of the development strategy of the jamoat of Kulkent, of the village development
plan of Aikol, and during the capacity building trainings of the RAs in Toguz-bulak ayil okmoty.
Planned result:
Up to 4 meetings between rural association councils and local government officials
Achievement:
At least 2 meetings were held with the Akim and first deputy Akim of Leylek district in November
2006, one in which the RAs presented a petition for building a Culture and Leisure Centre for
the local youth in the village of Aikol. The petition was also addressed to the Minister of Culture
and was to be presented to him personally by the RAs in Bishkek end November 2006.
Other petitions were also prepared by the RAs, one to JICA requesting equipment and training
for the upgrading of the primary health care center in Aikol, one to the Peace Corps demanding
the allocation of mother tongue volunteers to teach English language to school children, one to
the Alliance of Mountain Societies of Central Asia and one to the Central Asian Mountain
Programme requesting to join both these networks.
4.3. Deviations from original planning and reasons
None
4.4. Comments on constraints/assumptions
None

5. Supporting market integration
5.1. Short report on activities carried out
Activity 2.1: Supporting the diversification and enhancement of agricultural products
Three agro-seminars were implemented at the demo-station in Kara-bulak:
• A one-day seminar to show good practices in fencing fruit orchards (8 August)
• A three-day seminar covering basic theory and good practices of nutrition management,
irrigation and plant protection (19,20,21 September)
• A one-day seminar to show good practices in pruning and shaping fruit trees with metallic
supports and wiring (10 November)
Technical improvements were implemented on the two less performing units of solar dryers with a
view to accelerating the speed of the drying process. Testing with tomatoes and peppers followed
and the results suggest that, in spite of the technical enhancements, the two units continue to
perform less well than the other three prototypes in terms of speed of the drying process.
Testing of tomato F1 hybrids was completed in September. Results show that yield is similar to
local varieties, hybrids are more resistant to manipulation but also that there is no market
premium on the high dry contents of the hybrids –i.e. producers prices per kg do not differ from
the prices of the local high quality varieties though you need less quantity of hybrids to process
1Kg of tomato paste.
The testing of the European varieties of the apple young trees and rootstocks in the fruit
demonstration and experimental gardens shows a strong growth rate with the only exception of
one variety of young trees (Idared, M106) for which growth is lagging behind. At this rate of
growth, all varieties, except Idared, can be expected to deliver the first harvest already in year 2
(as compared to year 5 for traditional plantations).
A long-term financial plan (15 years) for the demo-station in Kara-bulak was prepared by the AMP
expert and presented to the PSC meeting of 12 October by the TL and to farmers, agricultural
specialists and local government officials in a seminar held in Leylek district on 13 November.
Activity 2.2: Assisting with building the capacity of selected co-operative groups
The members of a range of farmers co-operative groups participated in all the agro-seminars
delivered by the project in the ayl-okmoty of Toguz-bulak (see activity 2.1 above). In addition 5
trainings -attended by local co-operatives members- were delivered in the villages of Aibike,
Aikol, Kara-bulak, Minjigach and Toguz-bulak on the role and historical development of rural
associations and farmers co-operatives in Europe.
The co-operative of fruit growers was closely involved with the development of the long-term
financial plan for the demonstration and experimental garden in Kara-bulak (see above 2.1) and
its members are now formally represented in the technical committee of the demo-station.

Activity 2.3: Strengthening information, training and advisory facilities
An interim management board for the AIC in Kulkent was set up and started operating in
September. The business plan was adjusted and an interim Chairman and interim Director were
selected in October. The legal registration of the Centre was completed in November. Finally, the
AIC trainer was contracted by the Tacis framework project “Development of a Farming and
Agribusiness oriented Training and Capacity Building Programme” to develop and deliver a
training module on seeds procurement, development and multiplication to private farmers from
both Isfara and Batken districts. The revenue of this first contract will be allocated to the further
development of the AIC activity.
The AIC in Toguz-bulak was registered mid-November within the framework of the legal
registration of the RAC and was awarded a small grant from DFID to deliver training in
‘transparent budget management’ to the ayil-kenesh and ayil-okmoty of Toguz-bulak. A
representative office of the AIC was opened in Isfana, the Leylek district administrative center,
in the premises of the local NGO ‘Insan Leylek’.
Activity 2.4: Assisting with the development of pilot micro-finance schemes
Financial simulations for the setting up of a credit scheme to farmers to build rotating storage
facilities for apples and potatoes was designed and submitted to the OXUS micro-credit bank
established by ACTED. The plan was preliminary assessed by OXUS head-office in Osh and a
loan officer from the OXUS office in Batken visited the project target area of Toguz-bulak during
November 2006 to interview local farmers and to collect the additional information needed for a
full-fledged credit analysis.
5.2. Achievements compared to planned results
Planned result:
100 farmers advised and trained in good farming practices
Achievement:
Over 35 farmers participated to all the three seminars on good practices (see activity 2.1)
Planned result:
500 small agricultural businesses and farmer groups advised and trained on small business
management and financial planning techniques
Achievement:
A seminar on financial planning was implemented in the village of Minjigach on 13 November
(see activity 2.1) with the participation of 25 persons including from business incubator, rural
associations and farmers co-operative groups from Leylek district.
The project provided methodological advice in developing a financial plan for the demo-station
in Kara-bulak to the fruit growers co-operative, rural associations and other farmers groups from
Toguz-bulak ayil-okmoty.

Planned result:
2 Advisory Information Centres are set-up
Achievement:
The 2 AICs in Kulkent and Toguz-bulak set up their management structure, developed their
statute and completed the process of obtaining legal status (see above activity 2.2).
Planned result:
3 demonstration and sales co-operatives are set up
Achievement:
A technical committee for the demo-station in Kara-bulak was set-up.
The meat processing and sales initiative group joined the RA of Karabulak.
Planned result:
Up to 4 farmer groups receive a micro-loan through the project’s supported schemes
Achievement:
Financial calculations for a credit scheme to help farmers to build rotating storage facilities for
potatoes and apples were prepared by the project and submitted to OXUS (see activity 2.4). As
a follow-up a full-fledged credit analysis was initiated by OXUS in the project target area of
Toguz-bulak.
The study tour to the retail meat shop in Karakol was designed but not implemented due to a
time overlap with the tight time schedule of other trainings organized by the project, and notably
those related to the creation and capacity-building of RAs, which also involved the members of
the meat processing and sales initiative group.
None

6. Review and dissemination
Activity 3.1: Carry out project reviews
None.
Activity 3.2: Disseminate information, techniques and lessons learnt
Within the context of the dissemination and visibility plan, the following main actions were
undertaken:
• New video-materials on project’s activity were edited and presented to an audience of
students at the University of Batken on 12 October 2006 and to the media and members
of the PSC on 15 November 2006, also in Batken.
• A final press-release was prepared and issued with approval of the EC Project Manager
at a press conference held in Batken on 15 November 2006
• 4 CD Roms containing video-materials on project activity were distributed to the
2 AICs
• All project technical papers were transferred to the 2 AICs in Russian and/or in local
language
• Printed and electronic versions of the Village Development Plan and Social Economic
Development Strategy Paper (see activity1.3) were also disseminated widely among
local government executive and elected officials in Sughd and Batken oblasts.
6.2 Achievements compared to planned results
Planned result
1 model designed and piloted
Achievement
The following models for replication were designed:
• The financial plan for the demo-station in Kara-bulak that can also be used with easily
modifiable parameters and values for the financial planning of plantations belonging to
individual farmers.
• The Village Development Plan for Aikol which provides a format for replication in other
villages
• The long-term Social Economic Development Strategy for Kulkent
The following models were designed and piloted:
• The model for the organizational development of RAs in Toguz-bulak
• The scheme for pruning “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “
• The tests scheme
Planned result
10-15 conceptual and technical documents produced, formatted, recorded, coded in database
of AICs

Achievement
• The following documents were archived in the AICs:
• 2 plantation schemes for the demo-stations in Kulkent and Kara-bulak
• 2 pollination schemes
• 1 tests scheme
• 1 scheme for pruning
• 1 ‘model’ financial plan for demo-station in Kara-bulak
• 2 draft management schemes for demo-station in Kara-bulak
• 1 strategy paper for agricultural development in Batken oblast
• 1 concept paper on rural development
• 1 ‘model’ village development plan (Aikol village)
• 1 ‘model’ long-term social-economic development strategy for Kulkent
• 1 action plan for the implementation of the social-economic development strategy
• 2 business plans for AICs in Kulkent and Toguz-bulak
• 2 micro-credit reports
• 1 financial plan for a credit scheme to build storage facilities for potatoes and
apples in Leylek district
• 1 manual on construction techniques and costs of solar drying equipment
• 1 set of organisational charts, statutes, charter, work plans of the 5 RAS and the
1 RAC in Toguz-bulak
• 1 Information package on legal environment for SMEs in Tajikistan
• 9 training modules on ‘small business management’, ‘how to create a
cooperative’, ‘historical background on creation of rural associations and farmers
co-operatives’, ’fruit growing’, ‘training and pruning apple trees’, ‘social
partnership’, ‘advocacy and lobbying’, ‘how to write a grant’, ‘associations and
their environment’
Planned result
10-15 conceptual and technical documents disseminated
Achievement
The following documents were disseminated according to the list below:
Document Recipients
Rural development concept Governor and First Deputy Governor of Batken
Financial plan for credit scheme OXUS, ACTED
‘Model’ financial plan for the demo-station in
Kara-bulak
farmers co-operatives, RAs, local government
officials, RAS in Leylek district . GTZ Batken
office, ACTED, OXUS
‘Model’ village development plan (Aikol) RAC and RA of Aikol, First Deputy Governor of
Batken, Deputy head of Leilek state district
administration, Head of ayil-okmoty of Toguz-
bulak, Village Councils, ACTED.
Social Economic Development Strategy for
Kulkent and Action Plan for its Implementation
Deputy Chairman of Isfara State District
Administration, Chairman of jamoat of Kulkent,
Elected deputies in the majilis of Isfara district,
Senior Advisor to the Governor on Economic
Reforms

Planned results
2 video materials on project activity disseminated
Achievement
1 new video of 30 mn length on project activity was presented at the university of Batken on 12
October, and to the press and members of the PSC on 15 November, also in Batken.
None
None
7. Project management
Activity 4.1: Kick-off meeting II
None.
Activity 4.2: Steering committee meetings
The 4th
PSC meeting was implemented in Kulkent (Isfara district) on 12th
October (see minutes of
the meeting and list of participants in annex ). Mr Anvar Jakubov, Advisor to the Governor of
Sughd Oblast for Economic Reform and Senior Project Liaison Officer, chaired the meeting.
The 5th
and final PSC meeting was held in Batken (Batken district) on 15th
November (see minutes
of the meeting and list of participants in annex). Mr Akjol Madaliev, First Deputy Governor of
Batken and Senior Project Liaison Officer chaired the meeting.
Both meetings were co-chaired by the EC Project Manager, Ms Taru Kernisalo.

OVERALL REPORT ON THE TOTAL PROJECT
(See Form 3.2 Project Completion Report; Form 3.3. Output Performance Summary)
8. Local capacity building
Activity 1.1: Supporting the creation of “umbrella” rural associations at village level
As a follow-up to the study tour to Europe (see activity 2.1 below), a series of on-site trainings
were delivered towards the end of the first project year aimed at raising local awareness on the
historical development and role of rural associations and farmer co-operatives in Europe.
By the end of the second year of the project 6 LSHGs and 5 “umbrella” village RAs were
established and working in the ayil-okmoty of Toguz-bulak. This was achieved through an
intensive series of participatory trainings designed and facilitated by 3 project local short-term
experts in social mobilization, which enabled the LSHGs and the RAs to develop in a relatively
short-time –i.e. 4 months- their missions, statutes, organizational charts, work plans and to
adopt a common charter outlining the vision, principles and values binding them together. The
project also provided legal assistance to register the associations with the MoJ.
Activity 1.2: Supporting the creation of rural associations councils at municipality level
In year two of the project, 1 RAC-drawing together representatives of the village rural
associations in a single body- was established in the ayil-okmoty of Toguz-bulak and registered
as legal entity with the MoJ (see also 4.1, activity 1.2).
The role of the RAC is 1/to promote towards local authorities the application of the values and
principles of the rural associations (Charter) in the context of preparing social and economic
development plans 2/ to report regularly to local authorities on local communities economic and
social priority issues, requesting to receive feedback 3/ to contribute to the attraction of external
funding and mobilization of the resources of local communities to address the identified social
and economic priorities 4/ to monitor the allocation and use of public resources.
The RAC will also act as a management board for the AIC and the demo-station established by
the project in Kara-bulak (see below activities 2.1 and 2.3).
Activity 1.3: Strengthening the capacity of rural associations and local government structures
In the first year the international AMP expert prepared a short strategy paper for agricultural
development in the oblast of Batken and a concept for rural development was also formulated.
Reference was made in both documents to the role of associations and co-operatives in
promoting the social and economic development of rural areas.
In the second year of the project, over 50 trainings were delivered to help develop the internal
management and strategic planning capacity of the RAs, their advocacy and fund raising skills,
as well as to introduce the concept and practices of social partnership. Local government
executives and elected officials participated in many of the trainings (see also above 4.1 activity
1.3).
The capacity in strategy development of the RAs and local governments structures was further
enhanced through the project assistance to the participatory design and formulation of a ‘model’
three-year Village Development Plan for Aikol (see above 4.1, activity 1.3.).

In the jamoat of Kulkent the project supported the design, formulation and translation in Tajik
and English languages of a long-term development strategy (2007-2016) and the action plan for
its implementation. The preparation of the strategy was achieved through a series of 11
participatory trainings delivered in the final project period (see 4.1, activity 1.3) and involving a
working group of 21 representatives from civil society and local government. The strategy will
be presented to the local legislative assembly (majilis) in December 2006 and its adoption
would be expected to unlock public funding for its implementation.
Planned result:
6 RAs are set-up and working.
Achievement:
5 RAs in Toguz-bulak ayil-okmoty have developed their organizational charts, statutes, work
plans and registered with the MoJ.
Planned result:
2 RACs set up and working
Achievement:
Representatives to the RAC in Toguz-bulak ayil-okmoty were selected by meetings of the
general assemblies of the members of the “umbrella” village associations (RAs). Organisational
chart and statute of the RAC were developed. The RAC in Toguz-bulak ayil-okmoty was
registered as a legal entity with MoJ in November 2006.
Planned result:
70 trainings delivered
Achievement:
A total of 90 formal and informal trainings were delivered -i.e.15 trainings in strategy
development and 75 trainings to mobilize and build the capacity of RAs. 28 % of the total
trainings were delivered in the first year and 72% in the second year of project implementation.
(see also above 4.2).
Planned result:
10-15 case studies developed
Achievement:
3 case studies in education, public health and business development were produced within the
framework of the trainings for the preparation of the development strategy of the jamoat of
Kulkent.
Over 10 case studies were developed during the trainings for the capacity building of RAs and
the preparation of the Village Development Plan in the Toguz-bulak ayil okmoty.

Planned result:
Up to 4 meetings between rural association councils and local government officials
Achievement:
At least 2 meetings were held with the Akim and first deputy Akim of Leylek district in November
2006, one in which the RAs presented a petition for building a Culture and Leisure Centre for
the local youth in the village of Aikol. The petition was also addressed to the Minister of Culture
and was to be presented to him personally by the RAs in Bishkek end November 2006.
Other petitions were also prepared by the RAs, one to JICA requesting equipment and training
for the upgrading of the primary health care center in Aikol, one to the Peace Corps demanding
the allocation of mother tongue volunteers to teach English language to school children, one to
the Alliance of Mountain Societies of Central Asia and one to the Central Asian Mountain
Programme requesting to join both these networks.
According to the original plan 6 “umbrella” village RAs were to be established in Toguz-bulak
ayil-okmoty, one per each village. However 2 confining villages-i.e. Aikol and Gordoi-decided to
establish one joint association.
Only 1 RAC was established –i.e. in Toguz-bulak ayil-okmoty. A second initially planned RAC in
the jamoat of Kulkent was not established due to the reservations expressed by the
representative of Sughd Oblast in the PSC meeting of 12 May 2006 regarding the
implementation of activities 1.1 and 1.2 in the Tajik component of the project. However the
working group involved with the preparation of the long-term socio-economic development
strategy in Kulkent is expected to fulfill at least one function similar to the RAC after the project
ends, which is monitoring the implementation of the strategy action plan.
Less than 4 meetings were held between RAs and local government officials during the project
period due to the fact that the RAs only received official, legal status just two weeks before the
project’s end date, leaving little time for more meetings to take place.
None

9. Supporting market integration
Activity 2.1: Supporting the diversification and enhancement of agricultural products
In August of the first project year a study tour to Europe was implemented with 10 participants-
i.e. local government officials, private farmers, project’s local experts- from the two target
regions.
• The first part of the study tour (Belgium, Netherlands) provided the participants with
exposure to modern farming, agricultural processing and marketing practices. Special
attention was paid to raise the participants awareness of the role of farmers associations,
farmers co-operatives (according to the Raiffeisen principle), and adaptive research stations
in the development of modern farming practices.
• The second part of the study tour (Estonia, Latvia) familiarized the participants with
institutional and policy issues in the sphere of agriculture and small business development in
more mature transition economies which had recently joined the EU.
In the second year, two agricultural and fruit demo-stations were set up in the ayil-okmoty of
Toguz-bulak and in the jamoat of Kulkent which contributed to introduce for the first time in the
region the concept of demo-station as a tool to transfer knowledge to local farmers about
progressive farming practices.
Tests on shaping and pruning trees, plant protection, irrigation, use of biological and chemical
fertilizers, fencing, comparing varieties of apples were carried out in the demo-stations. A long-
term financial plan –i.e.15 years- was developed as a management tool for the demo-station in
the ayil-okmoty of Toguz-bulak. The plan shows that in the long-term the demo-station is
financially viable in terms of covering the costs of future tests, but that in the short-term (years 2
and 3) additional investment is needed as well as additional liquidity for covering the operational
costs. The plan is also a user-friendly and adaptable model for financial planning that can be
applied to other plantations. A second financial plan was also elaborated to simulate the
profitability of local varieties of apples trees grown with European production technologies (see
Annex 1, Final Mission Report of AMP Expert).
Seeds of European F1 tomato hybrids were tested in the demonstration field of the seeds
development farm “Mukharramova” in Kulkent. The aim of the tests was to introduce a new
range of varieties of hybrids seeds with relatively high dry contents and therefore particularly
suited for processing. The results of the tests show that the yields of the hybrids are comparable
to the yields of local varieties but that the F1 hybrids are more resistant to transport and
manipulation. Moreover, the tests have proved that to produce 1Kg of tomato paste you need
25% less quantity of hybrids than you would need with local varieties. However, the market test
has also shown that the cost saving for the processing factory did not translate into a
proportional increased sales price for the producer, which, if realized, would have more than
covered the high costs of the seeds procurement.
5 pilot units of solar driers were built and tested in the second project year and a manual
illustrating techniques and costs for their construction was presented in a seminar and
disseminated to farmers and specialists. The units raised positive expectations about improving
the quality of dried vegetable and fruits, notably apricots, and consequently increasing their
market values. The results of the tests have shown that the quality of dried products was indeed
increased; that some units performed better than others; finally, that the increased market value
of the products dried in the units could not be proven for the quantities tested were too small for
the market test to be significant. A local NGO, CEEBA, has expressed interest in building and
testing larger units of solar driers with the support of a Swiss University after the project ends.

A small retail meat shop was opened in the village of Kara-bulak (ayil-okmoty of Toguz-bulak)
and equipped with a display fridge and cold storage by the project. The aim of this initiative was
to increase quality and hygiene of meat cutting and generate incomes in rural areas. An
initiative group was created around the activity (see below 2.2) that also established a small
restaurant next to the meat shop. Consumers in Kara-bulak and the surrounding villages can
now buy higher quality and safer meat at a lower price without having to travel to the district
capital, Isfana.
Activity 2.2: Assisting with building the capacity of selected co-operative groups
In parallel to the activity of setting-up a demo-orchard in the ayil-okmoty of Toguz-bulak, (see
activity 2.1) during the second year, the project also promoted an initiative group of fruit growers
that later established itself as a registered farmers service co-operative aiming to assist its
members with renting equipment, spraying, etc. The members of this co-operative participated
to all project trainings in the demo-station and contributed to the further expansion of the later
by supplying and planting their own fruit trees.
In conjunction with the project initiative of establishing a hygienic retail meat shop in Kara-bulak,
a meat processing and sales initiative group was formed. The initiative group engineered the
expansion of the meat shop income-generating activity (see activity 2.1 above) and was trained
by the project in the management of the display fridge. Regrettably, a planned study tour to the
Tacis meat shop in Karakol (see Section 9, activity 2.2 in 3rd
Progress Report) which would have
further enhanced the group knowledge of good practices in hygienic meat-cutting and
management of a meat-shop could not take place (see ‘deviations from original planning and
reasons’, par.5.3 above).
Activity 2.3: Strengthening information, training and advisory facilities
In the first project year, the international SME expert trained a core group of local trainers from
both target regions. A training module on ‘small business management’ aiming at start-up
businesses was developed. The local trainers delivered 29 trainings involving 510 participants
from the 2 target regions.
4 brochures containing legal information on licensing, registration, patenting and certification of
small businesses in Tajikistan were designed, printed and disseminated through the AIC
Kulkent in the second year.
Business plans were formulated and 2 AICs were established in the second year in the jamoat
of Kulkent and in the ayil-okmoty of Toguz-bulak with the aims of strengthening information
dissemination, training supply, and advisory services to the respective local communities,
mainly-though not exclusively- in the spheres of farming practices and small business
management. Both AICs were registered and had started operations by the end of the second
project year. The project provided the AICs with equipment, supported the setting up of
appropriate management structures, trained their core staff, facilitated the development of
linkages with other similar structures at regional level and with other projects, and transferred all
relevant technical documents to the archives of the AICs.

Activity 2.4: Assisting with the development of pilot micro-finance schemes
A review of existing micro-credit schemes in the 2 pilot areas of Kulkent and Toguz-bulak was
carried out in the second year and 2 micro-credit reports were produced by the international
SME expert and disseminated to project partners, target groups, relevant micro-credit
projects/agencies. The reports concluded that micro-credit schemes already operational in the
target areas generally meet the expectations of the local demand for micro-credit and are in
principle suitable also to finance small farmers groups initiatives such as building solar driers.
However nominal interest rates (at an average monthly rate of close to 3%) are excessively high
and the problem is aggravated by the generally applied flat rate repayment system that is
conducive to a compounded rate of interest on credit well above the declared nominal rate.
The reports also concluded that credit ceilings and repayment schedules of micro-credit
schemes are not suitable to meet the demand of some of the project specific target groups -i.e.
fruit growers-which would instead benefit from longer term investment credit facilities. These
conclusions were to an extent validated by the financial simulations in the long-term plans
elaborated by the international AMP expert (see activity 2.1 above).
Finally, a variation of the two financial plans was also elaborated, which explored the
perspective of a credit scheme for building rotating storage facilities for agricultural crops
(potatoes) and apples that would contribute to boost farmers incomes. At the request of the
project, a full-fledged credit analysis to further assess the perspective of such a scheme was
initiated by OXUS in the pilot project area of Toguz-bulak ayil-okmoty.
Planned result:
100 farmers advised and trained in good farming practices
Achievement:
120 farmers participated systematically to all seminars on good farming practices implemented
by the project in both target regions.
Planned result:
500 small agricultural businesses and farmer groups advised and trained on small business
management and financial planning techniques
Achievement:
535 participants including representatives from 510 start-up small rural businesses, 6 farmers’
co-operative groups, 2 credit unions, 5 rural associations participated to the project seminars on
“small business management” and “financial planning”
Planned result:
2 Advisory Information Centres are set-up

Achievement:
2 AICs were established in the second year in the jamoat of Kulkent and in the ayil-okmoty of
Toguz-bulak. Business plans were developed. Premises were identified, refurbished, equipped.
Management boards were established and working. Key staff was recruited and trained.
Statutes were developed and the 2 AICs were registered as legal entities.
Planned result:
3 demonstration and sales co-operatives are set up
Achievement:
1 co-operative of fruit growers was established and registered. The co-operative is represented
in the technical committee of the demo-station in Toguz-bulak ayil-okmoty and has joined the
RAC.
1 meat processing and sales initiative group was formed and registered with the “umbrella” RA
of the village of Kara-bulak.
Planned result:
Up to 4 farmer groups receive a micro-loan through the project’s supported schemes
Achievement:
Financial calculations for a credit scheme to help farmers to build rotating storage facilities for
potatoes and apples were prepared by the project and submitted to OXUS (see activity 2.4). A
credit analysis was initiated by OXUS in the project target area of Toguz-bulak ayil-okmoty but
no farmer groups had by the end of the project received a micro-loan through the project’s
advocated scheme.
Only 1 co-operative of fruit growers was established and legally registered under the co-
operative law as a result of the project activity (see activity 2.2 above).
The additional 2 planned co-operatives were not established for the following reasons:
• The meat processing and sales initiative group in Kara-bulak because its members opted
instead to join directly the structure of the local “umbrella” village RA which, in their
assessment, has greater potentials to attract resources for the further development of their
initiative.
• The demonstration-site co-operative in Kulkent was not set –up because the local project
specialists and the international AMP expert have concluded that the management of the
collective farm ‘Bogiston’- where the fruit trees were planted- has already the capability, the
resources and the motivation, to ensure the continuation of the tests in the future.
None

10. Review and dissemination
Activity 3.1: Carry out project reviews
At the inception of the second project year a mid-term review of the project activity was carried
out as foreseen by the original project ToRs. The results of the review, implemented by the
newly appointed project team leader, were presented together with an adjusted project strategy
for the remaining period both to a kick off meeting II held in Almaty on 27 January 2006 and a
PSC meeting held in Khujand on 24 February 2006. The key strategy adjustments were
summarized as follows by the Tacis monitors report issued April 2006:
1. the geographical scope of the project was narrowed to 2 main pilot areas (Toguz-bulak
in Leylek district and Kulkent in Isfara district) with a view to enhancing efficiency and
effectiveness of the project activity
2. the number of results was reduced from 5 to 3 due (a) to cancellation of the small grant
scheme for social infrastructure rehabilitation (b) the merging of original results 2 and 3
justified by the close linkage of both results to the same specific objective of increased
income for farmers and small businesses
3. the activity ‘development of poverty reduction and development models’ in the way it
was originally understood was abandoned, instead the project would issue and
disseminate a number of technical documents
4. the activity ‘development of linkages between producers and producer groups and final
or intermediary markets (i.e. processors or traders) by assisting with introductions,
specification of requirements, contract, transport and technology’ was no longer
included.
The proposed adjustments were underpinned by a social-economic PRA carried out in February
2006 by the ACTED Monitoring and Evaluation Unit on behalf of the project in the 2 pilot areas
of Toguz-bulak and Kulkent (See Annex 6 of 2nd
Project Progress Report).
Activity 3.2: Disseminate information, techniques and lessons learnt
A specific outcome of the mid-term review was the elaboration of a dissemination and visibility
plan subsequently validated by the PSC meeting of February 2006. The plan includes the
following main activities:
• production and dissemination of video-materials on project activity/results
• dissemination of technical documents/manuals through project seminars and AICs
• enforcement of EU visibility guidelines
• organization/implementation of press conferences
Within the context of the plan the following actions were implemented in the second year:
• video-materials produced in the first and second project years were edited and
compiled in 2 films of a combined length of 1 and ½ hour
• films were periodically presented to target groups and media and extracts of the films
were broadcasted on local TV (see list of events in Annex …)
• CD-rom copies of the films were produced and transferred to the archives of the
AICs (see par. 6.1, activity 3.2)
• Technical documents were transferred to the archives of the AICs and disseminated
(see par.6.2 and 10.2)
• Press conferences were implemented in both target regions (see list in Annex…)

Planned result
1 model designed and piloted
Achievement
The following models for replication were designed:
• The financial plan for the demo-station in Kara-bulak that can also be used with easily
modifiable parameters and values for the financial planning of plantations belonging to
individual farmers.
• The Village Development Plan for Aikol which provides a format for replication in other
villages
• The long-term Social Economic Development Strategy for Kulkent
The following models were designed and piloted:
• The 2 plantation schemes for the demo-stations in Kulkent and Kara-bulak
• The 2 pollination schemes “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “
• The scheme for pruning “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “
• The tests scheme “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “
• The model for the organizational development of RAs in Toguz-bulak
• The business plans for the 2 AICs in Toguz-bulak and Kulkent
Planned result
10-15 conceptual and technical documents produced, formatted, recorded, encoded in
database of AICs
Achievement
Idem par. 6.2 above
Planned result
10-15 conceptual and technical documents disseminated
Achievement
The following documents were disseminated according to the list below:
Document Recipients
Rural development concept Governor and First Deputy Governor of Batken
Agricultural development strategy for Batken Governor and First Deputy Governor of Batken
Manual on techniques of construction of solar
driers
Farmers, RAS, officials from agricultural dept.
in the 4 target districts
Business plans for AICs (2) Project Partners, ACTED, JICA, MEDA, OSCE
OXUS, UNDP
Information package on SME legal
environment in Tajikistan (4 brochures)
Start-up businesses in jamoat of Kulkent
Micro-credit reports (2) ACTED, OSCE, OXUS, KAFC, MEDA, UNDP
Financial plan for credit scheme on storage OXUS, ACTED
‘Model’ financial plan for the demo-station in
Kara-bulak
Farmers co-operatives, RAs, local government
officials, RAS in Leylek district. GTZ Batken,
ACTED, OXUS.
‘Model’ village development plan (Aikol) RAC and RA of Aikol, First Deputy Governor of

Batken, Deputy head of Leilek state district
administration, Head of ayil-okmoty of Toguz-
bulak, Village Councils, ACTED.
Training modules (9) Farmers, small businesses, local officials,
self-help groups, associations
Social Economic Development Strategy for
Kulkent and Action Plan for its Implementation
Deputy Chairman of Isfara State District
Administration, Chairman of jamoat of Kulkent,
Elected deputies in the majilis of Isfara district,
Senior Advisor to the Governor on Economic
Reforms
Planned results
2 video materials on project activity disseminated
Achievement
See par 6.1, Activity 3.2 and Annex for list of disseminating events
None
None

11. Project Management
Activity 4.1: Kick-off meeting II
A second kick-off meeting was held on 27 January at the EC Delegation in Almaty in which the
results of the mid-term review and strategy for the remaining period of the project were presented
by the new TL (See Annex 5 of 2nd
Progress Report for minutes of the meeting).
Activity 4.2: Steering committee meetings
Five PSC meetings took place during the whole project period of which four were held in the
second project year. Dates and location of the meetings are listed in the table below.
PSC meeting - date Location
1st
PSC meeting -14 July 2005 Batken (Kyrgyz Republic)
2nd
PSC meeting - 24 February 2006 Khujand (Republic of Tajikistan)
3rd
PSC meeting - 12 May 2006 Isfana (Kyrgyz Republic)
4th
PSC meeting - 12 October 2006 Kulkent (Republic of Tajikistan)
5th
PSC meeting - 15 November 2006 Batken (Kyrgyz Republic)
At the beginning of the second year the Project Partners (PPs) appointed 6 Project Liaison
Officers (PLOs) which also represented the PPs in all PSC meetings. The PLOs were the
followings:
(i) Mr. Akjol Madaliev, First Deputy Governor of Batken Oblast
(ii) Mr. Anvar Jakubov, Senior Advisor on Economic Reform to Governor of Sughd Oblast
(iii)Mr. Tilleberde Aripov, First Deputy Akim of State District Administration of Leylek
(iv)Mr. Egemberde Abilov, Head of Personnel of State District Administration of Batken
(v) Mr. Nurullo Rakhmatov, First Deputy Chairman of State District Administration of Djabor
Rasulov
(vi)Mr. Abbos Yahyohujaev, Deputy Chairman of State District Administration of Isfara

12. Lessons Learnt and Recommendations
Lessons learnt from implementation
Relevance of project design
In the second year the project specific objective was modified following the cancellation of the
small grant scheme for social rehabilitation. The relevance of the project objectives to the
problems addressed was enhanced by the adaptation of the project results to the actual project
environment-following a mid-term review and needs assessment in the form of PRAs- and by
the formulation of measurable outputs. The geographical scope was narrowed to 2 pilot areas
and project activity focused more on target groups at grass-root level.
Effectiveness of the trainings
The effectiveness of the training activity towards the achievement of the expected results was
increased by putting emphasis on practical demonstration, which translated into immediate
application of the learning by the target groups into their daily working activity. For example the
good practices in shaping and pruning the fruit trees shown through the project trainings were
tested by farmers in their private orchards leading to increased yields. Effectiveness of the
training was also enhanced whenever a training module was directly and openly linked to the
delivery of a project expected outcome (e.g. a rural association set up, a village development
plan designed, etc.).
Sustainability of the project outputs
The potential sustainability of the project outputs (eg. demo-stations, AICs, RAs, etc.) was
enhanced in the second year by the increased sense of ownership of the project activity
developed by the local partners through frequent PSC meetings, and through the
implementation of a dissemination and visibility plan which led to improved communication with
the target groups. This translated into tangible in kind and financial contributions pledged to the
further development of the project outputs (for some examples see above par. 4.1, activity 1.1
and par 9.1, activity 2.2).
Two additional factors are also worth mentioning, which have contributed to boost the
prospective institutional and financial sustainability of the project outputs in the second project
year. First, the links developed through the project with existing networks providing rural
services- e.g. with the Rural Advisory Services (RAS) in Kyrgyzstan and with the network of
ACTED, MEDA, UNDP networks of Advisory Information Centres (AICs) in Tajikistan. Second,
the selection and utilization by the project of local experts that have brought the knowledge and
experience of local organizations (eg. the Public Association Erayim and the NGO ‘Insan
Leylek’ in Kyrgyzstan) and that have contributed to ‘twin’ their organization of origin with the
Rural Associations (RAs) enhancing the prospect that support for the institutional development
of the latter will continue after the project ends.
Recommendations for follow-up actions
Credit
An indicative financial plan for the setting up of a credit scheme for building storage facilities,
tailored to farmers in Leylek district was designed and submitted to OXUS micro-credit bank
(see above 5.1, activity 2.4). The plan shows that if credit is provided to individual or farmers
groups to build rotating storage facilities for apples and potatoes this would greatly enhance
farmers’ incomes in the area.

However, while the drafted plan meets the requirements on current credit ceilings of OXUS and
other micro-credit institutions, it also assumes a repayment schedule of 4 years with a grace
period of 2 years, and a nominal interest rate of 15 % on an annual basis. These assumptions
seem to depart significantly from the policy of micro-credit schemes operating in the region,
including OXUS. It is therefore recommended that 1/ OXUS carries out a full-fledged credit
analysis in the target district 2/that based on the results of the credit analysis, OXUS explores
the alternative option of extending to the project target areas an existing pilot credit scheme
managed through ‘village saving banks’, which was initiated by ACTED/OXUS in the Osh region
under a previous EuropeAid funded project and which would meet more closely the credit needs
of the target groups.
Strategy documents
A long-term social-economic development strategy and action plan for its implementation were
developed with project support for the jamoat of Kulkent (see above 4.1, activity 1.3). It is
recommended that 1/ the working group involved with the strategy preparation presents the
strategy and action plan to the local legislative assembly (majilis) for the pledging of budget
resources for implementation as of 2007 2/ that the working group monitors the implementation
of the action plan and strategy using the knowledge acquired during the trainings.
A ‘model’ Village Development Plan was designed with project support in the ayil-okmoty of
Toguz-bulak. (see above 4.1, activity 1.3). It is recommended that 1/ the plan is completed with
a financial component using the support offered by Erayim after the project ends 2/ that the plan
is disseminated by local authorities to other villages.
Demo-stations
Kara-bulak
According to the actual financial situation, as shown by the financial plan elaborated by the
project (see above 5.1, activity 2.1), it seems that the demo-station in Kara-bulak will be able
to generate the necessary incomes to execute the first part of its mission-i.e. to test and to
demonstrate.
With regards to the second part of the mission- i.e. to advise, teach and train- additional
resources have to be found in the form of small grants. In this respect, it is recommended that
the demo-station works closely together with the AIC of Toguz Bulak -under the management
framework of the RAC- to attract the necessary funding.
Kulkent
The plantation does not follow the original plantation scheme provided by the project (for
reasons see Annex 2, Final Mission Report of international AMP expert). Trees were planted in
two rows; each row is about 165 m long. This makes the overview of the tests quite difficult. The
supporting sticks are rather short (about 1 m above the ground). In the future, longer sticks and
a system of scaffolds and wires will be necessary to support the trees. Between the two rows,
tomatoes were planted. This was done to generate income while the young trees are not
bearing fruit yet. The practice of planting other crops between the young trees is generally
accepted in the region, but not regarded as a good practice elsewhere. Indeed, the space
between the trees should be cleared regularly to make sure that all nutrition and water goes to
the young trees to maximise their development.
It is therefore recommended that 1/ the trees are replanted as soon as the vegetation period
has come to an end 2/ during the replanting, the sticks should be put at an appropriate height.
3/ during the next season, no additional crops should be planted between the rows.

Rural Associations
Further capacity-building support is required for the RAs created in the ayil-okmoty of Toguz-
bulak (see 4.1, activity 1.1). Initial steps to ensure such a support were initiated through
petitions to join existing networks of associations (see above 4.2 and 8.2). It is recommended
that the Public Association Erayim 1/ continues to support the further institutional development
of the RAs through regularly inviting representatives of the RAs to joint trainings with LSHGs in
Bishkek 2/ facilitates contacts with other networks of associations-eg. the Alliance of Mountain
Societies of Central Asia- and promotes the participation of the RAs in donor funded civil society
programmes- e.g. Central Asia Mountain Programme or EuropeAid programmes for civil society
development.
Advisory Information Centres
The knowledge-base and human resource skills of the AICs need to be further developed and
upgraded through 1/ joining existing and/or developing networks of resources centers –e.g.
ACTED/MEDA network of agricultural information centres being developed under a new Tacis
project in Sughd Oblast; 2/expanding their existing portfolio of performance-based service
contracts with other donor projects (see 4.1, activity 2.3).

Support in Addressing the Social Consequences of Transition in the Ferghana Valley – Transtec / ACTED
FORM 2.2: PROJECT PROGRESS REPORT
Project title: Support in Addressing the Social Consequences of
Transition in the Ferghana Valley
Project nr: EUROPEAID/119689/C/SV/Multi Country: Kyrgyz Republic and Republic of Tajikistan Page: 1
Planning period: 08/2006-11/2006 Prepared on: 24.11.2006 EC Consultant: TRANSTEC-ACTED Consortium
Project objective: to contribute to the improvement of poor livelihoods in the target districts through new income generating activities and capacity building of local authorities and rural communities
TIME FRAME INPUTS
2006 (months) PERSONNEL EQUIPMENT&MATERIALS OTHER
Local experts EU experts
No ACTIVITIES IMPLEMENTED 1 2 3 4 Plan. Util. Plan. Util. Planned Utilised Planned Utilised
1
1.1
1.2
1.3
2.
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
3
3.1
3.2
4.
4.1
4.2
Local capacity building
Supporting the creation of “umbrella” rural associations at
village level
Supporting the creation of rural association councils at
municipality level
Strengthening the capacity of rural associations and local
government structures
Supporting market integration
Supporting the diversification and enhancement of
agricultural products
Assisting with building the capacity of selected co-
operative groups
Strengthening information, training and advisory facilities
Assisting with the development of pilot micro-finance
schemes
Review and dissemination
Carry out project reviews
Disseminate information, techniques and lessons learnt
Project management
Kick-off meeting II
Steering Committee Meetings
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
100
25
70
51
6
25
6
-
10
-
10
108
22
67
51
4
25
6
-
10
-
10
27
5
12
29
14
8
3
-
22
-
5
27
5
12
40
3
8
3
-
-
22
-
-
6
Incidental
Incidental
Incidental
Incidental
Incidental
Incidental
Incidental
Incidental
Incidental
TOTAL
303 303 125 126

FORM 2.3: RESOURCE UTILISATION REPORT
Project nr: EUROPEAID/119689/C/SV/Multi Country: Kyrgyz Republic and Republic of Tajikistan Page 1
Reporting period: 08/2006-11/2006 Prepared on: 24.11.2006 EC Consultant: TRANSTEC-ACTED Consortium
Project objective: to contribute to the improvement of poor livelihoods in the target districts through new income generating activities and capacity building of local authorities and rural communities
RESOURCES/INPUTS TOTAL PLANNED PERIOD PLANNED PERIOD REALISED TOTAL REALISED AVAILABLE FOR REMAINDER
PERSONNEL
EU Team Leader 440 81 81 440 0
EU long- term experts 440 44 45 433 7
EU short term experts 20 - - 20 -
Local long term experts 775 106 106 775 0
Local short-term experts 425 197 197 425 0
Sub-total 2100 428 429 2093 7
EQUIPMENT AND MATERIAL
Lot 1 (office equipment) 100 - - 100 -
Lot 2 (lab/ph.sanitary equip.) 100 - - 100 -
Lot 3 (laboratory equipment) 100 - - 100 -
Lot 4 (cold storage equip) 100 - - 100 -
Lot 5 (tomato seeds) 100 - - 100 -
Lot 6 (young trees, rootstocks) 100 - - 100 -
Sub-total 600 - - 600 -
OTHER INPUTS
Incidental budget 100 32 17 85 15
Sub-total 100 32 17 85 15
TOTAL 2800 460 446 2778 22

FORM 2.4: OUTPUT PERFORMANCE REPORT
Project nr: EUROPEAID/119689/C/SV/Multi Country : Kyrgyz Republic and Republic of Tajikistan Page : 1
Prepared on: 24.11.2006 EC Consultant: TRANSTEC-ACTED Consortium
Outputs/ results Deviation from original plan
+ or - %
Reason for deviation Comment on constraints &
assumptions
Result 1: The ability of local government officials to
prepare strategies and plan to reduce the incidence of
poverty with the participation of local communities is
increased in the selected pilot areas
Outputs
1. 6 rural associations are set up and working
2. 2 rural association councils set up and working
3 70 trainings delivered
4 10-15 case studies developed
5 Up to 4 meetings between rural association councils and
local government officials
Result 2: Sales and incomes of small farmers and
agricultural businesses in the selected pilot areas are
increased thanks to better market integration
Outputs
1 100 farmers advised and trained on good farming
practices
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

FORM 2.4: OUTPUT PERFORMANCE REPORT
+ or - %
assumptions
1. 500 small agricultural businesses and farmer groups
advised and trained on small business management and
financial planning techniques
3. 2 Advisory and Information Centres are set up
4. 3 demonstration and sales cooperatives are set up
5. At least 4 farmer groups receive a micro-loan through the
project supported schemes
local/community level, which maybe replicated in other
areas of the Ferghana Valley and beyond
Outputs
1. 1 model designed and piloted
2. 10-15 technical conceptual and technical documents
produced, formatted, recorded, coded in data base of
AICs
3. 10-15 number of conceptual and technical documents
disseminated
4. 2 video materials on project activity disseminated
-
-
-
-100
+ 300
+ 100
-
-
Project made proposals currently being
studied by OXUS but no loans given as yet.
See par. 5.1, activity 2.4 and par. 5.3
3 micro-models designed and piloted. See
par 6.2 of the report
Approximately 30 documents archived in the
AICs .See list par 6.2 of the report.

FORM 3.2 : PROJECT COMPLETION REPORT
Project nr:
EUROPEAID/119689/C/SV/Multi
Country : Kyrgyz Republic and Republic of
Tajikistan
Page :1
Reporting period: 01/2005-11/2006 Prepared on : 24.11.2006 EC Consultant : TRANSTEC-ACTED Consortium
INPUTS UTILISED
REPORTING PERIOD MAIN ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN EC CONSULTANT MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT OTHER
08/01/2005-07/03/2005
08/03/2005-30/11/2005
1. Mobilisation and kick-off meeting
2. Selection of staff and office set up
3. Review of project objectives and
strategy
4. Writing of the Inception Report
5. Setting up the Steering Committee
Capacity building
1. Support to oblast/district government
Officials
2. Support to Community Based
Organisations
3. Support to the setting-up of Regional
Management Boards
SME development
1. Provision of training to SMEs
2. Improving the enabling environment
3. Supporting the Batken Business
Incubator
4. Supporting the operation of LEAC
5. Supporting the operation of VETC
AMP development
1. Setting-up and development of
market linkages
2. Training of selected groups of
farmers
3. Assistance to intermediary operators
in improving their trade capacity
4. Diversification towards new and
improved products/services
5. Dissemination of the activities
results
Poverty reduction & development
model
1. Aid co-ordination model building
2. Dissemination of information
Project management
24 m/d
10 m/d
10 m/d
30 m/d
3 m/d
91m/d
230 m/d
17 m/d
10 m/d
26 m/d
53 m/d
37 m/d
102 m/d
46 m/d
12 m/d
115 m/d
20 m/d
132 m/d
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget

Project nr:
Tajikistan
Page :2
INPUTS UTILISED
12/2005-03/2006
04/2006-07/2006
1. Supporting the creation of “umbrella”
rural associations at village level
2. Supporting the creation of rural
associations councils at municipal level
3. Strengthening the capacity of rural
associations and local government
structures
1. Supporting the diversification and
enhancement of agricultural products
2. Assisting with building the capacity
of selected co-operative groups
3. Strengthening information, training
and advisory facilities
4. Assisting with the development of
pilot micro-finance schemes
1. Carry out project reviews
2. Disseminate information, techniques
and lessons learnt
Project management
1. Kick-off meeting II
2. Steering Committee Meetings
30 m/d
2 m/d
2 m/d
195 m/d
35 m/d
30 m/d
4 m/d
25 m/d
15 m/d
10 m/d
20 m/d
26 m/d
7 m/d
Lot 1- IT/office equipment
Lot 2 – lab/phytosanitary equipment
Lot 3 – laboratory equipment
Lot 4 – cold storage equipment
Lot 5 – tomato seeds (European hybrids)
Lot 6- young trees/rootstocks (European
varieties)
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget

Project nr:
Tajikistan
Page : 3
INPUTS UTILISED
08/2006-11/2006
structures
and lessons learnt
Project management
structures
17 m/d
101 m/d
19 m/d
85 m/d
47 m/d
13 m/d
13 m/d
135 m/d
27 m/d
79 m/d
91 m/d
7 m/d
33 m/d
9 m/d
Lot 1- IT/office equipment
Lot 2 – lab/phytosanitary equipment
Lot 3 – laboratory equipment
Lot 4 – cold storage equipment
Lot 5 – tomato seeds (European hybrids)
Lot 6- young trees/rootstocks (European
varieties)
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
Incidental budget

Project nr:
Tajikistan
Page : 4
INPUTS UTILISED
and lessons learnt
Project management
32 m/d
16 m/d
Incidental budget
Incidental budget
TOTAL 2093 m/d 6 lots of equipment 85/100 of total Incidental budget

FORM 3.3: OUTPUT PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
+ or - %
assumptions
Result 1: The ability of local government officials to
prepare strategies and plan to reduce the incidence of
poverty with the participation of local communities is
increased in the selected pilot areas
Outputs
1. 6 rural associations are set up and working
2. 2 rural association councils set up and working
6 70 trainings delivered
7 10-15 case studies developed
8 Up to 4 meetings between rural association councils and
local government officials
Result 2: Sales and incomes of small farmers and
agricultural businesses in the selected pilot areas are
increased thanks to better market integration
Outputs
1. 100 farmers advised and trained on good farming
practices
-16
-50
+28
-
-
-
-
+ 20
2 villages joined in one RA. See par 8.1,
activity 1.1
No RAC established in Tajik. See par 8.3
90 trainings delivered. See par 8.2
120 farmers trained-see par.9.2

FORM 3.3: OUTPUT PERFORMANCE SUMMARY
+ or - %
assumptions
1. 500 small agricultural businesses and farmer groups
advised and trained on small business management and
financial planning techniques
3. 2 Advisory and Information Centres are set up
4. 3 demonstration and sales cooperatives are set up
5. Up to 4 farmer groups receive a micro-loan through the
project supported schemes
local/community level, which maybe replicated in other
areas of the Ferghana Valley and beyond
Outputs
1. 1 model designed and piloted
2. 10-15 technical conceptual and technical documents
produced, formatted, recorded, coded in data base of
AICs
3. 10-15 number of conceptual and technical documents
disseminated
4. 2 video materials on project activity disseminated
+5
-
-33
-100
+ 900
-
-
-
523 start-up businesses, co-operatives, rural
associations, credit unions were trained-see
par 9.2
See par 9.3
Project made proposals currently being
studied by OXUS but no loans given as yet.
See par. 9.1, activity 2.4 and par. 9.3
9 micro-models designed and piloted. See
par 10.2 of the report

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