Quarterly Report II: Agriculture Technology Program in Turkmenistan (Year 2)

The program began in 2011 and is expected to run for several years. In the second quarter of the second year, AgTech continued to focus on artificial insemination training activities for the livestock sector and soil testing seminars for the horticulture sector. The program has made significant progress in these areas, with 76 healthy calves born as of March 31, 2012, and 140 greenhouses renovated or constructed. The livestock component of the program has been particularly successful, with 11 technicians trained in artificial insemination techniques and procedures. These technicians have identified new trainees in their respective districts, and the project has distributed 11L Dewar Flasks to each local trainer to equip them with mobile units for inseminating cows in remote areas. The horticulture component of the program has also seen significant progress, with the construction and renovation of 140 greenhouses. The project has focused on training farmers in soil testing and has identified key lead farmers who can act as extension agents for soil testing. This has enabled the project's local consultants to accurately identify the nutrient content in the soil of the greenhouses and provide recommendations for optimal fertilizer use. As of March 31, 2012, the AgTech project has spent $1,374,657.32 of the obligated funds of $2,064,076. The program is expected to continue its activities in the third quarter of the second year, with a focus on ensuring that all 2nd generation trainees are capable of working independently as AI practitioners and outfitting all trained professionals with the minimum AI equipment to serve their farming communities. The program's success has been attributed to its focus on building the capacity of local farmers and extension agents, as well as its efforts to link the actors of the value chain, including farmers, input providers, processors, local market buyers, and exporters. The program's goal is to create a foundation for sustainable development throughout the remainder of the project. Annageldy Sariyev, a trainee from Ahal, Ak Buday Etrap, has expressed his confidence in the program's ability to improve agricultural productivity and income for farmers in Turkmenistan. He notes that the program has helped him develop his skills as an AI practitioner and has enabled him to teach others in his community. Overall, the AgTech program has made significant progress in its second year, with a focus on artificial insemination training, soil testing, and greenhouse construction. The program's success has been attributed to its efforts to build the capacity of local farmers and extension agents, as well as its focus on linking the actors of the value chain.