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In the heart of Uzbekistan’s Ferghana Valley, Odina Sattorova tends to her thriving backyard greenhouse, where large, flavorful tomatoes ripen under the Central Asian sun. For Odina, agriculture has been a way of life since her youth, and her family’s livelihood depended on it. However, her story is now marked by a transformation fueled by “smart” farming techniques that have reduced labor while significantly boosting productivity and profitability.
A Remarkable Transformation
Odina’s journey into modernized agriculture began with the project “Smart Farming for the Future Generation,” initiated by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the Republic of Korea in 2021. This initiative sought to introduce new farming methods and tools in Uzbekistan and Vietnam that decrease water consumption, minimize labor, increase crop yields, improve crop quality, and elevate incomes.
The results are undeniable. Today, Odina harvests approximately 400 kilograms of tomatoes per week during the peak season, a remarkable increase from her previous yield of just 120 kilograms. The quality of her produce has also seen a remarkable improvement, with consistently smooth, large, and flavorful fruits.
Innovative Farming Techniques
The “Smart Farming for the Future Generation” project brought several innovations to Uzbekistan’s greenhouse farming. Notably, a shift from traditional clay covers to plastic shade nets on top of greenhouses has proven beneficial. These plastic films are more durable, absorb ultraviolet radiation, and prevent condensation within the greenhouse.
Among the introduced tools, Odina regards the drip irrigation system as the most valuable. This system not only provides precise water delivery but also incorporates a fertilization mechanism, ensuring optimal nutrient supply. Additionally, it monitors water salinity and acidity, efficiently regulating water usage, a precious resource in her water-scarce region.
Addressing Water Scarcity
Water scarcity has historically plagued Odina’s district near the Kyrgyzstan border, making the reliance on water canals an unpredictable source for irrigation. However, the project has introduced a solution by collecting water in a dedicated tank and automating its distribution, ensuring a uniform water supply essential for maintaining soil and greenhouse humidity. This precise control mitigates the risk of excess moisture, which can lead to plant diseases.
Knowledge and Empowerment
Odina’s journey to prosperity didn’t end with adopting new technologies; it also included valuable training provided by FAO. She learned the importance of monitoring temperature and humidity within the greenhouse, essential for preventing the spread of plant diseases. Armed with these newfound skills and practices, Odina has transformed her tomato business into a thriving small enterprise, doubling or even tripling her previous income.
Sustainable Farming for the Future
Neighbors and visitors to Odina’s farm immediately notice the innovative measures in place. Insect-proof mesh, disinfectant mats, and sticky traps for pests have drastically reduced the need for pesticides. This proactive approach prevents the intrusion of pests and diseases, enhancing crop health.
Digitalization has also found its place in greenhouse management. Sensors and software measuring soil moisture, solar radiation, humidity, and air temperature are being tested. This data, accessible through mobile devices, enables remote microclimate control and precise irrigation scheduling.
A Brighter Future for Families
For Odina and her family, the additional income from her flourishing greenhouse is life-changing. She aspires to provide her daughters with higher education opportunities, and the earnings are being earmarked for their university fees. Her story underscores how smart farming isn’t just about increasing yields; it’s about securing brighter futures for families and communities.
A Growing Future
Odina’s success story is just one among 40 greenhouses that FAO has modernized in Uzbekistan’s Andijan, Namangan, and Ferghana regions. As farming becomes “smart,” incomes become sustainable, fostering confidence in a brighter future. In the coming year, the project aims to expand the adoption of optimized greenhouses and extend these sustainable practices even further.
