Asian Forest Cooperation Organization Kyrgyzstan

Why this project matters

Kyrgyzstan’s rural communities depend heavily on agriculture, yet land degradation and advancing desertification are pushing many smallholder farmers further under the poverty line. With sharp climate variation across its mountain landscapes and growing pressure on soils and water resources, crop productivity has become increasingly unstable. The need for climate resilience extends beyond local farms, as Kyrgyzstan’s glacier‑fed waters sustain tens of millions of people across Central Asia—making landscape restoration a regional priority. 

In response, the Government of Kyrgyzstan has prioritized agroforestry as a strategic climate‑resilience solution. Our work with AFoCO supports farmers as they integrate agroforestry systems to restore soil health, improve water retention, and diversify income sources. These systems strengthen resilience to drought and erosion while contributing to national climate goals through carbon sequestration and improved landscape management. 

Project impact

The project has already undertaken the following activities: 

• Agroforestry design created 

• First training sessions by lead farmers for their local community 

• Secured funding for 2 nurseries