Agriculture Technology Program (AgTech)
USAID programme supporting the development of private enterprises, and improving the productivity of private, small and household farms
Description
The “Agriculture Technology Program (AgTech)” was launched to support farmers, veterinarians, agribusiness processors and input suppliers in increasing their access to vital training and equipment and strengthening their market linkages in the horticulture and dairy value chains. The project had two key components: 1) improved genetics, education and organization, increasing the incomes of private livestock/agribusinesses; and 2) skill development for private producers, processors and marketers of fruit and vegetables.
Technology
The AgTech project supported the creation of an artificial insemination supply chain to improve the knowledge of genetics and organizational skills of private livestock producers, providing them with training in such topics as dietary and veterinary needs, animal farm management and marketing. To meet this demand, AgTech aided in the creation of Artificial Insemination Centres in different velayats across the country, introducing the use of sensors with ultrasound machines for heat detection and a Liquid Nitrogen Generator (LNG) for semen storage. The project also promoted the use of greenhouses and drip irrigation techniques to support vegetable production.
Target
The AgTech project targeted greenhouse farmers, growers, and livestock farmers and owners, who took part in the project activities and training sessions and/or who joined the project consultations with a view to increasing their yields. Academic institutions were involved in the provision of training.
Business model
The AgTech project benefitted from USD 4 million in funding from United States Agency for International Development (USAID), plus an additional USD 150 000 provided by Chevron.
Impact
AgTech procured the necessary equipment for the establishment of the artificial insemination training centres, identified a suitable feed mix and practical tools for the livestock component, and promoted the development of working relationships with local entrepreneurs and international organizations in the sector. To ensure the sustainability of the project outcomes, AgTech provided training to 65 local veterinarians and zoo technicians on bovine artificial insemination techniques and equipped them with the necessary toolkits for the provision of breeding services to the nation’s livestock owners. In the horticultural sector, the project addressed food security issues with a seminar on forage crops, irrigation technologies and best greenhouse practices, providing the participants with opportunities to exchange knowledge of agronomic techniques and plant protection in Turkmenistan.
Partners
United States Agency for International Development (USAID); Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan (MFA), Chevron, United States Agency for International Development under Rural and Agricultural Incomes with a Sustainable Environment (RAISE)
Four Betters
Better production
