DescriptionOverview of the initiative and its approach.
Kitob AgroInformAsia is an online electronic agricultural library through which over 600 free educational, analytical, informational and other materials related to agriculture, rural life and the economies of Central Asia can be accessed. All materials are categorized under the following headings: Animals and livestock; Laws and regulations; Rural development issues; Educational video materials; Development organizations; Research and analyses; Marketing and Trade reports; Agricultural equipment and machinery; Natural resources; Plants and crops; Food and food products; Environmental protection; and Payment for services. Kitob AgroInformAsia is part of the Agro Space suite developed jointly by the AgroInformAsia company in Kyrgyzstan and AgroInform.TJ in Tajikistan as a hub for the hosting of various digital products developed for farmers.
TechnologyTechnology used by the initiative.
The library can be accessed through computers, tablets and smartphones with an Internet connection. The web app allows free or paid material to be posted after a simple registration procedure, as well as searches for materials by keyword and category; material downloads; and online payments for materials that are subject to a fee through the national bank card Korti Milli, VISA and e-wallets. The app connects to the payment gateways of financial institutions through an API connection for online payments.
TargetUsers, groups, or communities targeted by the initiative.
The target audience of Kitob includes anyone involved in the agricultural sector. The library is available either in all or some of the Russian, Kyrgyz and English languages. The developers claim that users had made more than 360 000 downloads as of October 2022.
Business modelHow the initiative delivers and sustains its value.
Most materials on Kitob are available for free, while the costs of the paid materials are set by the those who upload them to the e-library. The e-library takes a 5 percent commission from each download of the paid materials, while further revenues are generated from advertising. Users have the option to place in-app advertisements through two different routes – via Google Ads, or through the module’s own application, for displaying ads about seeds, crop protection products, fertilizers etc. Advertising costs USD 10/month or USD 50/year (correct as of December 2022).
ImpactThe observed or intended effects of the initiative.
The e-library supports the agriculture sector by hosting vital and easily accessible information, contributing to the creation of a learning culture. The materials hosted by the e-library (e.g. on food safety, technologies, regulations, best farming practices, as well as sectoral market analyses) can contribute to the dissemination of better farming practices and sustainable business development, while supporting research and development in the agriculture sector, etc.
PartnersOrganizations and stakeholders involved in the initiative.
European Union; Hilfswerk International; Austrian Development Agency
Four BettersThe FAO Four Betters supported by the initiative.
Better production
Better environment
Better life
