Project Number: 44067-012 March 2014

Regional: Promoting Gender-Inclusive Growth in Central and West Asia Developing Member Countries Financed by the Technical Assistance Special Fund (TASF-IV) (and TASF-V) and Cofinanced by the Government of Australia Tajikistan: Pilot Project- Strengthening Women's Economic Resiliency

in Climate Change-Vulnerable Areas across Darwaz (Final Report)

Prepared by: Mountain Societies Development Support Programme (MSDSP) Dushanbe, Tajikistan

For the Central and West Asia Department, Asian Development Bank

This consultant’s report does not necessarily reflect the views of ADB or the Government

concerned, and ADB and the Government cannot be held liable for its contents.

Technical Assistance Consultant’s Report

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Executive Summary

The project “Strengthen Women's Economic Resiliency in Climate Change Vulnerable Areas across Darwaz” was funded by Asia Development Bank (ADB) and implemented by Mountain Societies Development Support Programme (MSDSP) – a project of Aga Khan Foundation in Drava district of Gorno - Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO), Tajikistan. The project duration was 10 months starting from 11 February 2013 to 30 November 2013 and the total project budget was USD 25,900. The project benefitted 40 women heads of households from 40 Village Organizations (VOs) of Darwaz and 10 Afghan women from cross-border area. The action overall objective was to empower women and increase their resiliency to economic and ecological shocks, by building their capacity and opportunities for local livelihoods through non-agricultural activities.

Darwaz, in the GBAO region of Tajikistan, is a microcosm of the most pressing development challenges facing remote mountainous areas. Security and geographic isolation are exacerbated by the impacts of climate change, combining to limit opportunities to improve quality of life. Women in particular face lower freedom of mobility, lesser opportunities for participation in local governance, low access to agricultural support, and fewer acceptable livelihood opportunities than men. As more men migrate for employment, women are taking increasing responsibility for their families’ livelihoods and food production. With Tajikistan’s 2008 Gender Equality Index showing poorer results than the 2004 index across all key indicators, and women in Afghanistan facing even more difficult conditions, there is both a need and great potential for improving the economic situation of women. Considering that the UN and other agencies have documented that women face heightened risks from climate change, action is essential.

To raise women awareness on climate change issue and to build their economic resilience are key coping mechanism to success. Specifically, the success of achieving the desired project impact was measured by the reduced period of time in which the project beneficiaries reestablished their economic activity after extreme weather events. Through a series of trainings and experience sharing visits to Afghanistan and vise versa, the project increased awareness on gender issues and climate change and diversify local economic opportunities for women in the Darwaz area. The market exhibition day and cross-border exchange visits in the cross-border areas of Tajikistan and Afghanistan gave women opportunity to share practical skills and knowledge and to promote businesses. Raising people awareness on climate change impact, coping mechanism and gender issues is essential from high school level till the government level. Promotion of business and market development skills for economic resilience empower women to generate income and to lead the household. Practical projects on coping mechanism and Natural Resource Management projects addressing climate change adaptation practices would be effective for resilience.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. The Project and Its Targets 3

2. Report on Achievements of Project Targets 4

3. Lessons Learned and Recommendations 14

4. Organizational Gains 17

5. Table on Project Implementation Status 19

6. Photos 21

7. List of Annexes 28

Annex 1 Project Assessment Report

Annex 2 Research Study Report:

Variations in the Influence of Climate Change on the Household Economy and the Wellbeing of Women and Men

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1. The Project and its Targets

Darwaz district, in both Tajikistan and Afghanistan, is mountainous, impoverished, and highly

susceptible to economic and ecological shocks, whether they come through a decline in

remittances, a dry agricultural season, floods or increasingly unpredictable weather patterns

brought on by global climate change. Rising prices and a local economy that continues to show

only sluggish growth also hampers progress, with women in particular facing lower freedom of

mobility, low access to agricultural support, and fewer acceptable livelihood opportunities than

men, even as they take on increasingly central roles in their families’ livelihoods. The goal of this

project is to empower women and increase their resiliency to economic and ecological shocks, by

building their capacity and opportunities for local livelihoods through non-agricultural activities.

The approach taken in this project is two-fold. The first approach elevated the level of awareness

on gender issues in relation to climate change through research, knowledge products, and

capacity building of women leaders and local community leaders in Darwaz. The second approach

increased women’s economic resilience by expanding and diversifying women’s off-farm incomes

through entrepreneurship and market development, and promotion of cross-border trade between

Afghan and Tajik women. The ubiquitous threats from climate change, such as floods and

droughts, are less devastating to livelihoods that are non-agricultural and thus equipping women

with alternative livelihood skills decreased their coping time after extreme weather events brought

about by climate change.

The project addressed three sub-districts of Darwaz District, namely: Qalai Khum, Nulvand and

Vistkharv. It directly benefitted 40 women heads of households from 40 Village Organizations

(VOs) and 10 Afghan women from cross-border area. During the project lifespan, the awareness of

the targeted women and governmental agencies has been raised about climate change through

various trainings and women were capacitated to improve their economic conditions. An

assessment was conducted to find climate change impact and brochures were prepared for

publication and raising awareness on climate change, adaptation and mitigation approaches.

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2. Report on Achievement of Project Targets

2.1. Narrative on the Achievement of Planned Outputs and Activities following the order of

presentation in the DMF and the implementation plan1.

2.1.1 Project Management, Partnership, Institutional Arrangements as stated in Grant

Proposal Form

The project raised community awareness on climate change and gender issues and expands

economic opportunities in the cross-border area of Tajik and Afghan Badakhshan, in the remote

district of Darwaz. During the project lifespan, collaboration with the district agriculture department

and women affairs office of the district government of Darwaz was built to involve them in the

implementation. The Mountain Societies Development Support Programme (MSDSP) project team

conducted meetings with these governmental organizations and introduced them to the project

goal, objectives, activities and target sub-districts Qalai Khum, Nulvand and Viskharv. MSDSP is

partnering with 58 Village Organizations (VOs) in Darwaz. Within this project MSDSP have chose

40 VOs in the cross-border area of Darwaz. The same introductory meetings were held with

community members in the project sub-districts. The VO members during their meetings selected

40 women leaders, one from each VO. The selection criteria varied from village to village, but main

criteria included relevant knowledge and education, leadership skills, commitment to community

services and sharing knowledge to raise awareness on climate change. The 40 selected women

leaders have been trained through the project and are disseminating their knowledge and skills

with other members in their communities.

Even though during the meetings people mentioned that they are noticing climate change impact

in their daily life, it was challenging for them to define specific coping and mitigation mechanisms.

1,184 participants attended the meetings, 60% out of them were women. Women are one of the

vulnerable groups that need specific skills and knowledge to mitigate climate change impacts.

In addition to the women of Darvoz, the project actively was partnering with Aga Khan Foundation

in Afghanistan (AKF Afg) and through it with the Afghan district governor. The Afghan partners

supported with the selection and organization of exchange visits of Afghan and Tajik women in the

cross-border area. The exchange visits raised awareness about climate change impact and about

income generating activities of women in both sides. It also strengthened cooperation among

women of these two countries as well as between the local governments of Afghanistan and

Darwaz, Tajikistan.

2.1.2 Information on Personnel, Structure, Systems

The project team consisted of 10 people directly involved in the project implementation and

1 Note: Narrative report should be consistent with information provided in the appendices; after describing each activity,

indicate the period (tranche) when it was implemented

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management. Mohijahon Namakova, the project manager was responsible for direct coordination,

implementation and management of the staff and project activities. Abdurozikova Gulshan, the

gender specialists was responsible for meeting with women, identification and selection of women

leaders at village’s level, conducted the assessment on sex-differentiated effects of climate change

and follow-up activities with women. Madad Nazriev, the administrative and finance officer was

responsible for logistics; administrative tasks as well as all financial operations and

documentations. The local trainer prepared training modules and conducted the trainings.

Askarsho Zevarshoev, MSDSP coordinator of Appropriate Technology Promotion (ATP)

coordinator and Yodgor Konunov, senior programme officer reviewed the training modules,

provided feedback and finalized the training modules. They also prepared brochures on gender

and climate change and have been cooperating with the local government and the Aga Khan

Foundation in Afghanistan (AKF (Afg)) to organize the cross-border exchange visits for 10

participants selected from the training beneficiaries in Darvoz Tajikistan and for 10 beneficiaries

from Afghanistan. Rayhon Jonbekova, MSDSP Grants Officer ensures that narrative reports are

being submitted timely and meet the donor requirements. Bakhtiyor Azizmamadov, MSDSP

Regional Manager of Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast, Shodmon Hojibekov, Deputy

General Manager for Programme and Ramziya Janatshoeva, Deputy General Manager for

Finance of MSDSP were responsible for the project overall coordination to ensure that the planned

activities have been implemented timely and with a high quality within the planned budget. MSDSP

General Manager Kishwar Abdulalishoev, reviewed and approved all planned tasks before

implementation and reviewed the project reports before sharing with donor. Gulsha Jumakhonov,

certified trainer was hired from the University of Central Asia (UCA) to conduct trainings for women

leaders on finance management and business development.

This project was monitored by ADB through a team composed of: Jeremy Stickings (Social

Development Specialist - Gender), Wilma Silva-Netto Rojas (RETA 7563 Coordinator/Gender

Consultant) and Gulnora Kholova (Gender/ Implementation Consultant)

2.2. Narrative on Achievement of the Planned Project Outcome and Impact stated in the

DMF

All the activities based on the work plan have been completed successfully. Eight trainings have

been conducted for women from targeted VOs; training was conducted for representatives of

governmental agencies; and an assessment was conducted to define the impact of climate

change. Market exhibition was organized for Afghan women in Tajik cross-border side where Tajik

women taught Afghan women how to make conservation of fruits and vegetables. Two cross-

border exchange visits have been conducted where Tajik women visited Afghanistan and Afghan

women visited Tajikistan to share their best practices and lessons learned related to climate

change mitigation and income generating activities. For more detailed information, please see

Annex 1_the end line assessment report.

2.2.1 Output 1. Higher level of awareness on gender issues and climate change

2.2.1.1 Analytical research on the differential effects of climate change on women and men

of Darwaz

The gender specialist who is an experienced person that has been working with the local Women

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Affairs Committee for a long period of time directly worked with 40 selected women to raise their

awareness on climate change issues. The MSDSP team together with the gender specialist

developed the methodology for a survey on the differential effects of climate change to women and

men of Darwaz. A questionnaire was developed including questions to define impact of climate

change in Darwaz district (See Annex 2_the assessment report including the questionnaire). 100

people have been interviewed, of which 62 constituted to be women. Aggregated results showed

that of the total respondents 48 participants had high education, 35 secondary education and 17

vocational educations. Age wise 14 people were under 30 years old, 39 between 30 and 45 years

old, and 47 people were older than 45 years.

The assessment results showed that overall women awareness about climate change is relatively

low, since not enough organizations are addressing this issue in the area. In addition, the

educational materials at school level and communication materials (newspaper, websites and TV

programs) have limited information about climate change issue and coverage in the district is very

low.

In regards to the impact of climate change, from the targeted sample 75 respondents reported that

trees have been dried due to climate change; 74 respondents reported that their livestock got

various diseases as a results of climate change and died; 70 respondents noticed reduction of

yield as a result of climate change; 66 respondents believes that degradation of pastures is related

to climate change effects; 60 respondents noticed reduction of poultry and 55 respondents

reported reduction of water sources due to climate change. 43 respondents noted that from the

heavy rain falls and cold weather conditions in winter, the amount of various diseases increased in

their families what required lots of money for treatment.

Out of 100 respondents 95 people realized that they feel climate change effects and negative

impacts on their livelihood. The results showed that climate change has more impact on women

rather than on men in the households, since the majority of housework is implemented by women

and they are taking responsibility to solve household related issues. Only five respondents noted

that their households’ responsibilities are distributed equally between men and women to solve

such problems.

It became evident that the cooperation of local governmental and non-governmental agencies and

organizations is not equal as well. 80 respondents answered that during crisis situations and

disasters, the VOs provide first aid, organize free clean ups and support financially from the Village

Social Fund.

During the assessment women also expressed that they started to practice some of the adaptation

to climate change methods, as saving money and foodstuff. For using water resources more

efficiently, some people build small reservoirs near their houses. For irrigating land, people started

using the drip irrigation method – a more water efficient method compare to traditional irrigation

methods. They noted that due to limited funding sources and migration of their male family

members, it is still challenging to practice all adaptation approaches.

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2.2.1.2 Production of a Brochure for Public Dissemination on gender and climate change.

Access to information on global climate change issues and environment is limited in the rural

areas of GBAO. MSDSP prepared a brochure to raise public awareness on gender and climate

change in the mountainous areas of Tajikistan (Annex 3_Brochure on Climate Change). The

brochure covers themes on impact of climate change, adaptation and mitigation, examples of

climate change impact and coping mechanisms in similar mountainous areas in other parts of the

world. The brochure also includes information on the results of the project assessment on climate

change impact. 500 copies of the brochure were printed and disseminated in the project area.

2.2.1.3 Training of local government officials on gender and climate change

The aim of this training was knowledge transfer and awareness rising on gender and climate

change for local government officials. The MSDSP team and the project gender specialist

prepared the training modules on climate change and gender (see Annex 4 a & b). The training

module have been focused on the following sub-themes: a) gender and society; b) the

ecosystem; c) climate change, adaptation and mitigation, impact of climate change; d) correlation

of gender in the conditions of climate change; e) the State Strategy of the Republic of Tajikistan

on climate change; f) the analysis of the data provided through the assessment on climate change

in Darwaz district; g) and the issue of gender equality in the conditions of climate change.

The first training took place from 22–23 May 2013 for representatives of the local government. 30

participants (nine of them women) from relevant governmental agencies participated in the

training (see Annex 5_List of participants of governmental officials. The training included

presentation by MSDSP trainers and the gender specialist and included group work and lively

discussion. A film about climate change in the Hindu Kush-Himalayan region, its impact and

adaptation to climate change was shown to participants.

By the end of the training, the training participants have been asked to evaluate the training and

express what they learned/liked in the training, what were the gaps and made suggestions for

future improvement. Few participants expressed that they did not had any idea about climate

change and its impact before the training, and suggested to conduct more often similar trainings

for local people, particularly housewives. Some of the participants noted that the overall module is

helpful for their daily life activities and the handouts will help them in future not to forget the

knowledge acquired. Two participants expressed that they participated in the training for the first

time and find it very educational, helpful and will participate in future if will have opportunities. It

was also expressed that the participants meet with new people and created a network.

2.2.1.4 Training of women leaders on gender and climate change

It was planned to conduct one training on gender and climate change for the 30 women leaders.

However, after the same training for the local government officials, demand for the training

increased among local people. Therefore, MSDSP conducted the training twice for 51

participants within the approved budget. From 12-13 of June 2013 training was conducted in

Anjirak village of Darwaz district for 26 participants including one representative of the local

government (Annex 6_List of participants in Anjirak-women leaders). The second training was

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conducted from 20-21 of June in Nulvand village for 25 participants (Annex 7_List of

participants_women leaders). Both trainings included theoretical and practical sessions. The

theoretical sessions included presentations, live discussions and group work. The practical

sessions included field visits where the trainer showed participants drip irrigation methods, water

saving, planting vegetables under plastic where the vegetation period is shorter. The trainings

also included a section on family budget planning. The monitoring results showed that more than

15 women already started family budget planning and it is being discussed during the VO

meetings. The women leaders are also conducting training on family budget planning in the for

the members of women groups.

By the end of the trainings, the participants have been requested to evaluate the training and

provide information about what they learned and liked, and where were the gaps and their

suggestions for improvement. The participants noted in the training evaluation forms that such

trainings should be conducted more often, because women have been introduced to climate

change issues and ways of coping in more detail. Some of the women noted in their evaluation

forms that it is for the first time that they are attending any training at all, and almost majority of

the information in the training was new for them. A few participants expressed that the training

gave them an opportunity to meet more female leaders in their area and from the neighboring

villages, and jointly they discussed climate change impact and shared experience. In many of the

evaluation forms, the participants expressed that the trainers explained the module very well while

using examples from real life situation. The participants find the group work and the scene being

showed very effective.

2.2.2. Output 2. Improve access of women to business opportunities in local market

2.2.2.1. Training on women empowerment and leadership, how to start an environmentally

friendly and climate resilient business; Business planning and accounting; Taxation and

Small and Medium Enterprise regulations; Marketing.

For women empowerment, the University of Central Asia was selected as a certified service

provider to conduct the training on environmentally friendly and climate resilient business,

business planning and accounting, taxation and SME regulations, and marketing (see

Appendixes 8 as the training modules and handouts). Due to the course’s heavy content, the

training was divided into two times, for five days each. The one time training was conducted from

June 24-28 2013. A total of 26 female participants attended the training to learn basic business

skills and started their own business independently (Annex 9_List of participants_women

empowerment).

The training evaluation report showed that participants were satisfied with the training module and

group work, which helped them, better understand the material (Annex 10_Evaluation report).

They requested to conduct more similar trainings on business planning. Even though the training

were conducted in Tajik language and the presentations were all in Tajik, one of the handout

Business Planning book provided to Participants was in Russian language and they expressed

their preference to have all handouts in Tajik language which will be considered for future

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activities.

The second phase of the workshop "creating small businesses in response to changing climatic

conditions in the region: the basics of business planning began two weeks after the completion of

the first phase. In the first phase all participants have been tasked to prepare information for the

business plan. Information included the following:

1. Determination of the impact of climate change on business in Darwaz,

2. An analysis on the possibilities of generating business ideas,

3. Marketing analysis:

Identification of the type of your product and its characteristics.

Analysis of the market and competitors. Definition of competitiveness of your

own product.

Identify the methods to promote products and services in the market.

The second part of the training mainly focused on the preparation of the business plan, specifically

for the purchase and sale of various assortments of goods that normally will be implemented by

local businessmen in the cross border market in Darwaz.

Various financial reports, including the report on profits and losses for the identification of profit,

distribution of profits, and the report on the property status of the business have been discussed

and prepared. In addition, various indicators of doing business as: determination of the break-even

point, the margin of safety, the definition of demand for goods in the market, the price of internal

marketing analysis, sensitivity analysis, profitability of companies and profitability have been

determined.

At the end of the seminar, all participants passed their mini exam, and received a certificate of

participation (Annex 10_b_Sample_of_Certificate) at the UCA course "creating small businesses

in response to changing climatic conditions in the region: the basics of business planning."

The monitoring and end line assessment results showed that after the training, number of local

women borrowing micro-credits from the Micro-Lending Organization (MLO), Community Based

Saving Groups (CBSGs) and branches of Amonatbonk and Agroinvestbonk increased. While

requesting micro loans the local women are preparing business plans themselves and presenting

to the banks.

The training on Taxation and Small and Medium Enterprise regulations was conducted on 23

August 2013. This training was organized in cooperation with the local tax committee and the head

of the tax committee of Darwaz district was selected to conduct the training. Except the training

materials, a brochure on taxation was shared with the participants (See Annex 11_Brochure on

Tax). 25 participants attended the training, among which were 16 women and 9 men including

representatives of the Local Government and new starters and experienced entrepreneurs (See

Annex 12_List of the training participants). The participants discussed the new tax code, changes

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and types of taxes, which should be paid by individual entrepreneurs. The participants emphasized

that before they had controversial questions about taxation, but through the training they were able

to clarify many questions regarding tax code.

The training on women empowerment and leadership was organized on 28 of August in the village

of Sangevn, Nulvand sub-district. 20 women from 19 villages of Darwaz district participated in the

training (see Annex 13_List of the training participants). Participants had discussed about

women’s rights, responsibilities and method of leadership and shared their experience, about the

progress and challenges of leadership. During the training representative of the Local

Government, head of sub district “Shikay” and head of VO “Kayvand” shared their experience on

leadership. At the end of the training all participants received a brochure about management and

women leadership (See Annex 14_brochure about women leadership). After the training, it was

noted that women started to apply for leadership position, participating in prioritization and

planning of sub-projects at village level. In Sangevn VO a women leader was selected where as

the position used to be occupied by male.

2.2.2.2 Cross-border exchange visit from Tajikistan to Afghanistan

In collaboration with AKF Afghanistan MSDSP organized cross-border exchange visit for the

Tajik women. A total of 10 participants were selected from the trainings beneficiaries among

whom were: the deputy of Governor of Darwaz district, four farmers who processing the product

and sold it in the Cross Border market, the head of Common Interest Group (CIG) “Duzanda”

and head of CIG “Kadbonu”. MSDSP provided them with foreign passport and Afghan visa.

From 22-23 October the Tajik women visited the border villages of Afghan site and had

exposure to different projects like bee keeping, vegetable growing (tomatoes, cabbage, and

cucumber), and sewing workshop. The Tajik women find the old ways of drying fruits (through

cutting it into three pieces) interesting and decided to revive this culture back in Darvoz.

In sewing workshop the Afghan women showed their experiences on sewing. Than a

seamstress from Tajikistan shared her experiences, particularly in cloth cutting. The

Afghan women have shown great interest in sewing and asked to conduct such training

in cooperation with Darwaz women, Tajikistan through AKF Afghanistan and MSDSP.

In School of Nusay the participants talked to teachers and schoolchildren. One thing to

note is that there boys and girls studied together in one class, but in a separate places.

The schoolboys were more actively in discussion than the girls. The teacher mentioned

that some years ago it was not possible for boys and girls to study together in one class.

The school was before in a bad condition. There were no desks and chairs. The children

were sat on the floor. Now it is improving due to Aga Khan Foundation in Afghanistan

and other donors.

In the Hospital in Nusay there were many patients receiving treatment and most of

them were women. The Tajik delegation noted the sanitation and hygiene conditions to

be improved in the hospital. The medical staff in the hospital constituted to be Tajik and

Afghan doctors.

In the wedding home Tajik women were introduced to Afghan culture and traditions of

celebrating wedding. The Afghan family spends a lot of money for celebrating wedding in

compare to the weddings in Darvoz district.

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Afghan household. At total 10 Afghan households have been visited. The visitors have

been introduced to the living standards and economic conditions. A competition was

organized on preparing dough and baking flat cake between Afghan and Tajik women.

The Tajik women made it better what indicated that the Afghan women still need training

in this area.

Visiting cross-border district of Afghanistan was very interesting for women of both sides. The

event was a good opportunity for sharing best practices and learning from each other. Tajik

women were able to teach the Afghan women different skills to open small businesses in the

сross-border market.

2.2.2.3 Cross-border exchange visit from Afghanistan to Tajikistan

In September and October a cross-border exchange visit was organized for Afghan women to

Darvoz district of Tajikistan. The Afghan women had four visits to the cross-border market of

Darwaz, Tajikistan, of which one was Market Exhibition Day (see Annex 15_List of

participants).

During the first visit, the Tajik women prepared and presented about structure and work of

Community Based Organizations (CBOs), particularly CIGs, CBSGs, and VOs.

In the second time a meeting was organized with the Tajik ladies who are working in a different

governmental organizations. Each one of them presented their job, responsibilities and their

contribution in the development of the region.

During the third visit, the Afghan women have been introduced in detail with the CBSG model:

how they collect money for saving, collect money for social problems, deposit the amount in

Micro-Finance Institutions or simply provide loans for their members. In total 87 Afghan women

visited the cross-border market and have been introduced to the different successful

experiences of CBSGs. In 2009, MSDSP launched CBSG program in three targeted areas of

Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO), Rasht valley and Khatlon region. This five-

year program has been implemented with the object of increasing access to savings-led and

self-managed financial services for remote but primarily poor and disadvantaged communities.

As a result of the three-abovementioned visits of Afghan women to Tajik cross-border market

side, the following results have been achieved:

Conditions have been created for partnership of Tajik and Afghan women for further

partnership. The Afghan women acquired new friends in Tajik Darwaz and they are

continuing collaboration with them. They are calling and asking for tips on cooking

sweets, processing fruits, vegetable and sewing workshop.

After the exposure visits, AKF Afghanistan decided to continue the activity and

organized an exposure visit for additional 10 women from Afghanistan to the work and

activities of the women leaders of the current project in Darwaz, Tajikistan. Mainly they

had meeting with local business ladies and discussed issues around small business

related to agricultural stuff in the cross-border market area.

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The Afghan women have a huge interest to CBSG project and have asked AKF

Afghanistan to introduce the same project in Afghanistan.

After exposure to the projects in Tajik site and meeting with women groups the Afghan

women had a meeting in a few Afghan villages with the aim of establishing women’s

groups.

The Afghan women learned to process fruits and vegetables at home and then they

shared experiences with their neighbors.

2.2.2.4 Market exhibition day for women to promote businesses

On the 14th of October a market exhibition day was organized in Darwaz cross-border market.

20 women and five men from Afghanistan crossed to the Tajik site and have been welcomed by

the deputy of Darwaz Governor to the market exhibition. From Tajik side 42 women participated

in the exhibition. They presented the agriculture product (fresh and dried fruits and vegetables,

processed fruits and vegetable products), pastry and non-agriculture products; needlework,

knitted clothing, sewed different products; pillows, curtains, handicraft and shared skills with

Afghan women. The Tajik women showed and taught Afghan women how to make various

dishes. Five types of pastries have been prepared and other foods with meat as stuffed

cabbage roll. A discussion was held between Tajik and Afghan women on preparing traditional

and modern type of food. At the end of the day Afghan visitors procured all prepared food. This

event was translated on two Tajik television channels: 1st Channel and TV Safina. The

participants highly appreciated the event and expressed their interest in future cross border

cooperation. The event strengthened the connection of women entrepreneurs in cross border

trade; to receive information on the women needs in cross border market; and an agreement to

conduct cross border market exhibition more often.

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2.3. Sustainability of Project Outcomes, likelihood of achieving impact

Despite short duration of the project and small amount of activities, MSDSP envisions to ensure

that the project outcomes are resulting in positive impacts. The way forward is presented in

table below.

# Design Summary Performance Targets and Indicators

1

Impact: Women economically

and politically empowered to

cope with extreme weather

events and other effects of

climate change.

By 2015: Decrease in average time period of reestablishing economic activity (non agricultural) after extreme weather events.

2

Outcome: Women

economically and politically

empowered to cope with

extreme weather events and

other effects of climate change.

Women project beneficiaries have achieved:

increased participation in local government planning and implementation of climate change related initiatives;

increased participation in planning and prioritization of related sub-projects at the village level;

3

Output 1: Higher level of awareness on

gender issues and climate

change.

30 local government officers demonstrate enhanced skills on integrating gender issues in climate change adaptation and mitigation programs

40 community women leaders able to articulate gender and climate change issues

500 brochures on gender and climate change disseminated

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Output 2: Improved access of women to business opportunities in local markets.

20 women equipped with skills in non-agricultural livelihoods, start their own business

Women’s section in the Darwaz market is established and operational

As a result of the study on differential effects of climate change to women and men of Darwaz it

was revealed that women are more vulnerable to the effect of climate change than men.

Through the project activities women have been economically and politically empowered to

cope with extreme weather conditions and negative impacts of climate change in Darwaz

district. Increased capacity and knowledge of women about business development already

shows specific results where individual women opened their own small-businesses and

continuously are teaching their entrepreneurship skills to other women in their neighborhood.

While sharing experiences and knowledge during the market exhibition day, the number of

Afghan women in the market is slightly higher in compare to the beginning of the project.

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MSDSP will continue monitoring and support of the project progress and Afghan women

participation and activeness in the cross-border market after the project completion as well.

MSDSP has a wide experience in terms of working with the local CSOs for community

mobilization to promote local solutions and meet the daily needs of people. MSDSP have

established the VOs and all related activities are channeled through these VOs. The VOs

periodically conduct their meetings and discuss the project issues and solve them. The result of

the assessment will be shared with the local government and its results and recommendations

will be considered by MSDSP in its future projects. The cooperation established between local

governments of these two cross-border areas and stronger network with the civil society

organizations will lead to establishment of a platform to address similar issues in the future and

will contribute to the sustainability of the project outcomes.

By the end of the project, the cross-border exchange visit and market exhibition days have been

documented in a CD and along with the project reports have been widely distributed in the

region to raise communities’ awareness about preparation and adaptation to climate change

impact and mitigation as well as about the project activities.

In the future MSDSP will incorporate similar activities into the other call of proposals to expand

the target area and also replicate the best practices within its other targets areas.

15

3. Lessons Learned and Recommendations

Based on the implemented activities and results of the assessment on awareness level about

climate change, the following challenges and lessons have been identified and

recommendations were made accordingly.

Women empowerment

Conducting a study before implementing similar activities provided a clear and wider picture of

issues to be considered in order to incorporate into the capacity building programme.

Darvoz is a conservative part of GBAO where majority if women are usually not continuing their

education after completing high school and do not acquire any skills for employment

opportunities. Beside these, they are carrying the household needs, working in the field and

taking care of their livestock. The local government and NGOs do not have specific programmes

focused on women empowerment and raising awareness about coping mechanism of climate

change. Therefore, it is recommended:

To support the existing women’s groups and to create women groups in cross-border

villages of Afghanistan.

To facilitate joint cross-border activities between women groups of both sides which will

help to share experience and empower more women in the targeted areas.

To provide needs based trainings at the village level for women in cross-border areas.

Training can be provided in sewing and cooking as well as on gender, climate change and

business development. The sewing group Duzanda is a business of one CIG. The group sews

dresses for selling and conduct paid base trainings on sewing, but it needs technical support to

be provided with proper equipment so the members can produce better quality products on

which demand is high in the local market. Duzanda needs technical support to expand its

business and to enable it to provide training on sewing for Afghan women to build their skills

and to generate income. So far the sewing group is supporting divorced women or women from

poor households. The Darwaz women can also provide training on cooking and baking pastry

for Afghan women about what they were interested. Except skill development training, Afghan

women need training on awareness raising about climate change impact and business

development to increase their resiliency to economic and ecological shocks, by building their

capacity and opportunities for local livelihoods through non-agricultural activities.

Raising awareness through communication, broadcasting and publications

Since the overall awareness level was relatively low based on the assessment, it is also

recommended to raise communities’ awareness about climate change impact and coping

strategy though educational materials, textbooks, forums, seminars and the local TV channels.

Awareness about climate change is limited at school level, since local school is still using old

text books where not much is emphasized about this issue. More trainings and visual materials

should be prepared and disseminated during specific campaigns dedicated to climate change.

16

Developing of natural resources management projects addressing the climate change

adaptation practices

Natural resources, land and agricultural products are among the main sources of income of

local population. But climate change factors as avalanches, mudslides, draught, lead to

decrease in water sources, decrease in harvest, various diseases decrease the productivity of

livestock and overall natural resources. During the field visits, the project beneficiaries have

been already introduced to some type of mitigation against natural hazards and climate change

as planting vegetables uner plastic, drip irrigation methods, water saving technologies, but more

adaptation practices need to be replicated. Therefore, it is recommended to develop natural

resource management projects addressing climate change adaptation practices for a wider

population in the area.

Supporting Afghan women with proper documentation to cross the border

The exchange visits proved to be helpful for women of both sides, especially for Afghan women

who learned many new skills regarding keeping household and developing new business ideas

for income generating and being more independent economically. More women deserve such

opportunities therefore, it is recommended to the local government and INGOs to support them

with obtaining legal documentation for crossing the border. They can attend various trainings

that currently are provided by the women leaders in Darvoz like on Family Budget Management,

on adaptation to climate change impact, attend road shows and other similar events.

Practical projects on coping mechanism to raise women awareness

Local women mainly felt the impact of climate change in their daily life but did not always realize

it. During the trainings through the project, they expressed interest to learn more about coping

mechanism to decrease the impact of climate change in their livelihood. Therefore, it is

recommended to support small projects for women focused on coping mechanism with climate

change. The example can be like establishment of subtropical orchards, planting trees which

are suitable to climate change, usage of drop irrigation mechanism to save water sources,

establishment of a storage for community members to save their fruits and vegetables in winter,

etc.

3.1. On the pilot project’s effectiveness and relevance to achievement of the women’s

empowerment and gender equality agenda in the project site.

Nowadays, many men are leaving for migration to generate income and provide financial

support to their families. Women are leading the household, taking care of their children and

responsible for agriculture (livestock and land), which is one of the main sources of income in

the area. Therefore they often face with challenges as a result of climate change. Improving

women knowledge enables them to cope and decrease the impact of climate change and

improve their livelihood through small income generating activities. After completing training the

women became more active on decision making in their families, improved equity in families.

Now the women think about business, producing local product and making money. Their

knowledge about business plan and how to apply for a loan from the bank was improved. Now

17

in the pilot area of the project the women have self-reliance be head of the VO and have an

equal right in the decision-making of projects.

3.2. On efficiency in project management

Overall, the project management team was able to successfully implement the entire project

planned activities during the short period of time and achieved superior results. However, there

were a few procedurals and administrative concerns raised during the project implementation.

One of the main issues was that, Afghan women did not held passport and proper

documentations for crossing the border, therefore, MSDSP had long discussion and

explanations to the border guards and custom service to allow Afghan women to cross the

border several times. Even though Afghan women got chance to attend the cross-border

activities in Darwaz, they were unable to leave the market area. Due to these procedural

limitations, the Afghan women did not had chance to get exposure to other MSDSP projects

available in Darwaz district. The fee for single entry visa is USD 70, which is high. Another issue

is literacy - limited knowledge of writing in Farsi. It was challenging to prepare distribution

materials and advertisement notes during the exchange visits in Farsi language what would be

more understandable for Afghan participants.

18

4. Institutional Gains - Effect of the pilot project to our organization’s capacity to

develop, implement and monitor gender and development (GAD) projects

MSDSP is including gender and youth empowerment as a cross-cutting issue in its five year

strategy 2011-2015. Therefore, all its projects are considering and including gender balance and

youth and women empowerment activities. However, the technical personals of MSDSP have

been capacitated about considering climate change and gender issues in future projects.

Through the pilot project, MSDSP hired a gender specialist and put main emphasize on gender

issues related to climate change and women empowerment. It strengthened collaboration and

partnership about women of cross-border areas of Tajikistan and Afghanistan in Darwaz district.

The training module developed through the project has specific section on gender related to

climate change and MSDSP intends to use this module for its future related projects.

19

5. Table on Project Implementation Status

Strengthen Women's Economic Resiliency in Climate Change Vulnerable Areas across Darvoz Tajikistan Project Starting Date: 12 February 2013 Project End Date: 30 November 2013

Table on Project Implementation Status As of November 30, 2013

:

Based on approved Implementation Plan Report on Actual

Status

Remarks if target

dates and success

indicators were not

achieved as planned

Outputs Activities Activity Success

Indicator (Planned)

Completion

Date

Higher level of awareness on gender issues and climate change

Analytical research on the differential effects of climate change to women and adaptation measures in Darwaz

Analytical research report to be shared with relevant partners and stakeholders

May

Completed

Production of a brochure for public dissemination on gender and climate change.

500 brochures on gender and climate change disseminated

July-August Completed

Training of local government officials on gender & climate change

30 local government officers demonstrate enhanced skills on integrating gender issues in climate change adaptation and mitigation programs.

May

Completed

20

Training of women leaders on gender & climate change

40 community women leaders able to articulate gender and climate change issues

June

Completed

Output 2 - Livelihood skills development for economic resilience

Livelihood skills trainings Topics: Women empowerment and leadership, how to start an environmentally friendly and climate resilient business, business planning and accounting, taxation and SME regulations, marketing.

21 women equipped with skills in non-agricultural livelihoods, start their own business

June-July Completed

Cross-border exchange visit from Tajikistan to Afghanistan.

Women’s section in the Darwaz market is established and operational

August-September

Completed

Cross-border exchange visit from Afghanistan to Tajikistan.

Women’s section in the Darwaz market is established and operational

August-September

Completed

Market exhibition day for women to promote businesses.

Women’s section in the Darwaz market is established and operational

September-October

Completed

Mid Term and End line assessment

Assessment report June and November

Completed

21

6. Photos with captions

Pic.1: Gender specialist is interviewing community members for the sex differentiated effects of climate change assessment.

Pic.2: Training for government officials on climate change and gender.

Pic.3: Group presentation on how to start an environmentally friendly and climate resilient business.

Pic.4: Group presentation on how to start an environmentally friendly and climate resilient business.

Pic.5: Group work of the training participants.

Pic.6: Group picture of the training participants.

22

Pic.7: How to start an environmentally friendly and climate resilient business, Business planning and accounting second phase.

Pic.8: How to start an environmentally friendly and climate resilient business, Business planning and accounting second phase.

Pic.9: How to start an environmentally friendly and climate resilient business, Business planning and accounting second phase.

Pic.10: How to start an environmentally friendly and climate resilient business, Business planning and accounting second phase.

Pic.11: How to start an environmentally friendly and climate resilient business, Business planning and accounting second phase.

Pic.12: How to start an environmentally friendly and climate resilient business, Business planning and accounting second phase.

23

Pic.13: Women empowerment and leadership training.

Pic.14: Women empowerment and leadership training.

Pic.15: Training of women leaders on gender and climate change.

Pic.16: Training of women leaders on gender and climate change.

Pic.17: Meeting Afghan women with bread and salt Pic.18: Community Based Saving Groups are greeting Afghan women with flowers

24

Pic.19: Cross Border Market Exhibition day Pic.20: Cross Border Market Exhibition day

Pic.21: Cross Border Market Exhibition day

Pic.24: Cross Border Market Exhibition day

Pic.22: Cross Border Market Exhibition day

Pic.23: Cross Border Market Exhibition day

25

Pic.25: Exposure visit to Afghanistan

Pic.26: Exposure visit to Afghan site, agriculture project.

Pic.27: Exposure visit to Afghan site. Competition on

baking bread.

Pic.30: Exposure visit to Afghan site. Final joint lunch.

Pic.29:Exposure visit to Afghan site. Sewing workshop

Pic.28: Exposure visit to Afghan site. Sewing workshop

26

Number of distributed brochures through VO, SUDVO in Darvoz district

# The name of VOs The number of brochures

1 Sagridasht 10

2 Chukhkak 3

3 Kamchak 3

4 Lukhch 3

5 Saydun 4

6 Klumbai -Poyon 3

7 Klumbai bolo 3

8 Sadika 2

9 Kalai - Husayn 5

10 Pastirog 2

11 Pushtarog 2

12 Langaro 2

13 Margak 2

14 Dashtisher 2

15 Safedoron 4

Total in SUDVO Sagridasht 50

1 Zigar 6

2 Khostav 6

3 Jak 4

4 Nulvand 5

5 Punishor 5

6 Sangevn 5

7 Ushkharv 4

8 Shkev 4

9 Yoged 8

10 Shirgovad 3

Total in SUDVO Nulvand 50

1 Kevron1 25

2 Kevron 2 17

3 Jorf 9

4 Vishkharv 6

5 Togmay 8

6 Kurgovad 17

7 Viskharv 15

8 Brovg 11

9 Poshkharv 4

Total in SUDVO Vishkharv 112

1 Patkunob 20

2 Durobak 20

3 Sangevn 30

4 Zing 19

27

5 Umarak 17

6 Dashtak 15

7 Zev 14

8 Shirg 15

9 Khusharvak 10

10 Anjirak 7

11 Madrasa 10

12 Zingirog 14

13 Ruzvay 15

14 Dashti Luch 10

15 Khumbivari 12

16 Saripul 13

17 Chorbog 7

18 Bunikuh 12

19 Punidu 13

20 Sangov 15

Total in SUDVO Kalai-Khumb 288

Total distributed 500

28

7. List of Annexes

Attached

Annex 1 Project Assessment Report

Annex 2 Research Study Report: Variations in the Influence of Climate Change on the

Household Economy and the Wellbeing of Women and Men

Available Upon Request2 contact Judy Vermudo: jvermudo@adb.org

Annex 3 Brochure on Climate Change

Annex 4A Raising Women Awareness on Adaptation to Climate Change

Annex 4B Training Module on Gender Equality in the Face of Climate Change

Annex 5 List of Government Participants

Annex 6 List of Community participants (Anjirak-women leaders, Nulvand village

Annex 7 List of participants_women leaders (national)

Annexes 8a-l Training modules and handouts on Women’s Empowerment

Annex 9_ List of participants

Annex 10: Training Evaluation Report

Annex 11 Brochure on Taxation

Annex 12 Training on Taxation: List of Participants

Annex 13 Training on Women’s Leadership: List of Participants

Annex 14 Brochure On Women‘s Leadership

Annex 15: Market Exhibition Day : List of Participants

2 Storage: ADB EStar Files (restricted access) : https://estar.adb.org/documents/download?id=%7B0729757A-A722-479C-BFF4-

15F25ED64686%7D&objectStoreName=ADB

i

MOUNTAIN SOCIETIES DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT PROGRAMME

A project of the AGA KHAN FOUNDATION

Promoting Gender-Inclusive Growth in Central and West Asia Developing Member Countries - Pilot Project-

TAJ (44067-012)

Strengthen Women's Economic Resiliency in Climate Change Vulnerable Areas across Darwaz

Final Review 2013

Planning, Monitoring & Evaluation (PME)

December 2013

ii

List of Acronyms

AKF Aga Khan Foundation

ASUDVO Association of Social Union for Development of Village Organizations

CBSG Community Based Savings Groups

LAs Local authorities

MSDSP Mountain Societies Development Support Programme (a rural development

project of Aga Khan Foundation Tajikistan)

NGO Non-governmental Organization

PME

PRSP

Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Unit (MSDSP)

Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper

SUDVO Social Union for Development of Village Organizations

VO Village Organization

iii

Table of Contents

List of Acronyms ........................................................................................................................... ii Executive Summary ..................................................................................................................... iv

1. Introduction .............................................................................................................................. iv 1.1 Background .......................................................................................................................... iv 2.2 Methodology ......................................................................................................................... v

2. Findings ..................................................................................................................................... vi 2.1 Relevance ............................................................................................................................. vi

2.2 Effectiveness ....................................................................................................................... vii 2.3 Efficiency ............................................................................................................................. ix 2.4 Impact ................................................................................................................................... ix

2.5 Sustainability ........................................................................................................................ xi

Overall Conclusion and Recommendations ............................................................................. xiii

Annexes........................................................................................................................................ xiv Annex 1: List of Literature Reviewed ...................................................................................... xiv

Annex 2: Evaluation Checklist .................................................................................................. xiv Questions for Focus Group Discussions .................................................................................. xiv Questions for key informant interviews ................................................................................... xiv

Annex 3: List of Group Discussion participants ...................................................................... xv

Annex 4: List of Key Informant participants ........................................................................... xv

iv

Executive Summary

The Mountain Societies Development Support Programme (MSDSP) launched the “Promoting Gender-Inclusive

Growth in Central and West Asia Developing Member Countries” project in Tajikistan in 2013. Funded by the

Asian Development Bank (ADB), this project consists of twofold objectives:

a) Increased gender awareness in climate change vulnerable areas in the targeted districts, and

b) Improved access to economic opportunities in local and cross border markets.

The purpose of the review was to assess changes brought about the project in the target areas. The review

revealed that the project did positively impact the participants and beneficiaries in many aspects and achieved

most of its objectives. Specifically, awareness raising of women and the staff of local government on climate

change and gender parameters increased in the area. Additionally, women have been economically and

politically empowered to cope with extreme weather conditions and other effects of climate change in

vulnerable areas in Darwaz district.

Overall, the project activities, objectives and philosophy behind the project are very much relevant to Darwaz

and the community members residing in the area. It is suggested that MSDSP should take forward the project

activities and the philosophy in future proposals and projects related to climate change and gender

parameters.

Coordination of all stakeholders’ governmental and non-governmental organisation and institution was

improved in project implementation process.

1. Introduction

1.1 Background

Darwaz district, in both Tajikistan and Afghanistan, is mountainous, impoverished, and highly susceptible to

economic and ecological shocks - whether they come through a decline in remittances, a dry agricultural

season, floods or increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. Rising prices and lagging local economy also

hampers progress, with women in particular facing lower freedom of mobility, low access to agricultural

support, and fewer acceptable livelihood opportunities than men, even as they take on increasingly central

roles in their families’ livelihoods. The goal of this project is to help empower women and increase their

v

resilience to economic and ecological shocks, by building their capacity and opportunities for local livelihoods

through non-agricultural activities.

The approach taken in this project is two-fold. The first approach will elevate the level of awareness on gender

issues in relation to climate change through research, knowledge products, and capacity building of women

leaders and local community leaders in Darwaz. The second approach will increase women’s economic

resilience by expanding and diversifying women’s off-farm incomes through entrepreneurship and market

development, and promotion of cross-border trade between Afghan and Tajik women. Regular threats from

climate change, such as floods and droughts, are less devastating to livelihoods that are non-agricultural. Thus

equipping women with alternative livelihood skills will decrease their coping time after extreme weather

conditions brought about by climate change. This 10-month project was planned to be implemented in three

sub-districts of Darwaz District, namely: Qalai Khum, Nulvand and Vistkharv. It was proposed to directly benefit

40 women heads of households and 10 Afghan women through pertinent cross-border activities.

2.2 Methodology

The review comprised desk research and collection of primary data. The desk review of key documents was

done prior to and during the visit to Darwaz.

Three villages in three sub-districts were selected for the interview. The criteria for selection of the villages

were the villages’ proximity to the district centre, and the level of intervention received from MSDSP.

The qualitative tools that were employed for collecting the outcome level information included key informant

interviews, focus group discussions and participation in project final workshop held in Darwaz centre. The key

informant interviews were conducted with head of Nature Protection Department, the head of District Women

Committee, Head of Department of Trade and Economic development and Deputy Chairman of Darwaz district.

The focus group discussions were held in each sub -districts and included discussions with women leaders.

The collected data were transcribed into Excel for further processing and analysis in PME unit in MSDSP GBAO

office.

vi

2. Findings

The findings of the evaluation are presented according to five principles commonly accepted in evaluation

research. Particularly, the evaluation looked at relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, impact and sustainability of

the project. The key findings are presented below.

2.1 Relevance

It was crucial to evaluate “The extent to which the objectives of a development intervention were consistent

with beneficiaries’ requirements, country needs, global priorities and partner’ and donor’s policies.”

Overall the project activities were relevant for the targeted population following the reason that the area is

vulnerable for the impact of climate change. Based on the analytical research report on the differential effects

of climate change to women and men of Darwaz, the local population has proved that they have experienced

by the effects of climate change by linking them to various factors: drought and reducing water resources,

decreasing harvest of vegetables and fruit due to various diseases, increasing livestock diseases and mortality,

and damage to private houses and public buildings.

In terms of significance and relevance of development intervention to national requirements and priorities, the

project contributed to a number of the goals outlined in the national government’s National Development

Strategy for 2006-2015. The most relevant section is the Promotion of Gender Equality (p.43). Through the

project activities, women have increased potential for agricultural and economic growth; they increased

potential as entrepreneurs, and in general, they have become less vulnerable to poverty.

This project has also addressed many issues outlined in the Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper for 2010-2012.

The project addresses the needs and interests of local population particularly women. Women are attempting

to be involved in entrepreneurial activities and expand their access to resources and market places. The use of

home vegetable gardens will also increase access to healthy food, thereby combating poor nutrition amongst

women and their families. In a broader sense, it contributes to the development of the agricultural sector, a

goal that falls under the “Promotion of Sustainable Economic Development” section of the action plan (p.71),

as well as contributing to improved land management through the development of home vegetable gardens,

and helps combat erosion through the promotion of orchards (p.51-52). Indeed, food security has recently

vii

been reprioritized in light of rising prices in Tajikistan, and increasing food security and agricultural production

is a cornerstone of the PRS’ “Promotion of Sustainable Economic Growth” section (p.23).

The pilot project supported the implementation of ADB “Pilot Program for Climate Resilience (PPCR)” in the

Republic of Tajikistan by preparing communities, especially women, in adapting to the effects of climate

change. The project also relates closely to the goals outlined in the Tajikistan – Joint Country Partnership

Strategy 2010-2012 ADB planning document. The project targets two major crosscutting issues by addressing

the intersection of the empowerment of women and regional adaptability to climate and environmental

changes.

Conclusion

Overall, the project activities, objectives and philosophy behind the project are very much relevant to Darwaz

and the community members residing in the area. It is suggested that MSDSP should take forward the project

activities and the philosophy behind in future proposals and projects related to climate change and gender

parameters. Specifically, the project can be replicated in areas of similar climatic conditions.

2.2 Effectiveness

The project has successfully contributed to the overall objective of the project “increased gender awareness in

climate change vulnerable areas in the targeted districts”. During the focus group discussions and key

informant interviews, it was revealed that the local population previously did not have any information

concerning climate change and gender. The main reason of the lack of information was connected to weak

operation of mass media and television.

According to the project the planned capacity building trainings has been delivered with full participation of

target groups. The topics of trainings conducted are:

“Gender and Climate change” for local governmental officials and separately for the women groups;

“Gender and Climate change” for women leaders from 40 Village organizations;

Training on women empowerment and leadership, how to start an environmentally friendly and climate resilient business; Business planning and accounting; Taxation and Small and Medium Enterprise regulations; and Marketing.

viii

“The active participation of local authorities during the training sessions, has motivated us

(women) and increased the sense of commitment to serve and work in social life of the

community”

Quwwatkhonova Z, Women leader from Yoged village, Darwaz district

During the key informant interviews with governmental officials, it has been revealed that, all related

governmental bodies who participated in trainings has benefitted from the trainings. The high level of interests

and attention of local authorities to the project activities was observed through the active participation of local

governmental staff not only on the trainings but also in their active participation in other project activities.

MSDSP district office has involved the local authorities and other partners and institutions to the community

based trainings conducted in the framework of ADB project. The active participation of local authorities and

other related local governmental bodies was highlighted by the women leaders who have participated in the

trainings. Among the involved partners and local authorities were: head of Village Organisation (VO), Head of

Social Union. Development of VO’s, Head of Association of SUDVO’s, Chairmen’s of sub-districts and

representatives of District Women Committee.

The head of Nature Protection Department of Darwaz district has mentioned that, Tajikistan in 1998 ratified

the United Nation Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). In 2003 with governmental decision

the National Action Plan on Climate Change Mitigation was approved. Since then many steps have been taken

in the direction of adaptation to climate change at national level; however, the adaptation processes were not

been applied in local level. To this end, the trainings conducted in local level with the involvement of women

leaders highly contributed to the awareness rising of local population and sharing knowledge on adaptation

processes. It was recommended to increase the awareness raising on climate change and gender at village level

and among school students by designing the special modules on climate change and incorporating them to the

educational program.

Conclusion

Overall, the project has increased awareness on climate change and gender among the women and

governmental staff. Coordination of all stakeholders’ governmental and non-governmental organisation and

institution was observed in project implementation process.

ix

2.3 Efficiency

During the project period, 6 capacity building trainings were conducted on climate change and gender issues;

500 brochures developed on the similar topics and disseminated in more 50 village organisations; Overall, 97

people participated in the trainings comprising representatives of local government, 30 participants. Total of

159 people have been involved in cross border exchange visits and market exhibition from which 112

participants from afghan side.

All allocated budget has been efficiently used according to the detailed implementation plan. For instance,

MSDSP has organised the training for women on climate change and gender to 51 participants instead of

planned 30.

2.4 Impact

Mainly, the project has contributed to gender awareness in climate change and increasing knowledge on

entrepreneurial activities among women in targeted area. The outcomes of the conducted trainings are:

Increasing knowledge of project participants on the issue of gender equality in the

conditions of climate change

Planning of family budget

Planning of small scale businesses to strengthen the economic resilience

Improved knowledge on the price of internal marketing analysis, profitability, calculation

of cost price

Small and medium enterprises regulations and taxation

The project beneficiaries reported that the trainings were relevant for them, as they did not have any

knowledge on climate change issues before; and that their households have been affected by various climate

change factors such a drought or decreasing of water resources, decreasing harvest of vegetables and fruits

due to various diseases, increasing livestock morbidity and mortality, and damage caused to private houses and

public buildings due to natural hazards. The practical session of the trainings was a particularly interesting part

of the trainings, noted by majority of the participants, where they have had an opportunity to see the climate

change adaptation practices in reality. During the field visits participants have been introduced to planting

trees and using of drip irrigation methods in places with less water resources, water saving technologies,

planting vegetables under plastic where the vegetation period is shorter. Some of the climate change

adaptation practices were already replicated in deferent villages of Darwaz district: for instance, the water

saving storage in Zev village, planting of trees by using the drip irrigation technique and covering tress with

plastic in Kewron village, terracing of sleep slopes preventing the landslide and stabilization of riverbank by tree

planting in Khostav. (See Picture 1 below). Production and dissemination of 500 brochures on climate change

x

and gender in all VOs of Darwaz district have significantly contributed to the widely dissemination of climate

change information among the population. The copies of brochures were also disseminated among the

governmental departments.

The knowledge gained has been disseminated by the women leaders to the various groups of peoples during the different events (national holidays), VO, SUDVO and CBSG meetings. As a result of climate change trainings, people started to pay more attention to specific adaptation practices

like processing of their fruits and vegetables, planting of adopted seedlings and using of water saving

technologies.

The trainings on marketing and starting of environmental friendly small business were highly ranked by women

leaders during the discussion. There are several evidence and examples of using of knowledge gained by

women on their daily lives. Mrs Safarova Pokizamo has opened her own shop and mainly sells her own

processed agricultural products (fruits and vegetables). Mrs Nematova Marifat, the head of Common Interest

Group (CIG) - where the groups of women are involved in sewing national dresses - has successfully realized

her business plan for 4,000 USD. She noted that the modules on marketing and developing of business plans

have really improved the knowledge of local women in the direction of creating new opportunities for

economic resiliency and income generation. Previously, the women were not so active in entrepreneurial

activities and did not feel confident while getting any loans for small scale businesses. One of the main reasons

for not being confident was the inability to develop a detailed business plan, market analysis and

competitiveness and calculation of the cost price.

Picture 1. Collection of water in storage in drought areas of Darwaz ditrict

xi

Furthermore, the group of women has recommended to negotiate with the existing banks and service

providers so they require detailed business plans from women whenever they plan and apply for loans for

businesses purposes.

The impacts of the conducted trainings are:

Women are processing fruits and vegetables and hoarding for winter;

Planting of adopted seedlings

Reforestation and riverbank stabilization

Using of water saving technologies

Developing of family budget

Developing of business plans and involvement in a small-businesses

The impacts of cross-border visits and market exhibitions are:

Improved the knowledge of afghan women on fruits and vegetables processing;

Exchange knowledge on climate change adaptation practices;

Demonstration of national cultures between Afghan and Tajik women.

Through the implemented project the number of targeted beneficiaries has been reached and even succeeded.

Besides 40 women leaders and 10 women from Afghanistan who were targeted in the project proposal, MSDSP

has conducted the first meetings in 40 VOs to introduce the project goals and objectives with average

participation of 22 VO members in each meeting. In the process of women leaders’ selection, a total of 880 VO

members have been introduced to the project objectives and goals. The number of Afghan women

beneficiaries has been increased from 10 to 87 women participating in cross –border exchange visits and

market exhibitions. A total of 96 persons have been involved in all project trainings and 10 persons have

participated in project final workshop.

2.5 Sustainability

MSDSP is implementing all community based projects through its institutional platform (VOs and SUDVO’s) and

those VOs are responsible for the maintenance and sustainability of the projects at village level. This project

mainly has built the knowledge and capacity of local women on climate change adaptation and on

entrepreneurial activities. The people can keep sustainable and maintain the gained knowledge and

experiences on climate change through applying adaptation practices and knowledge on economic resiliency

xii

through engaging in entrepreneurial and income generating activities. The majority of the population has the

opportunity to make their own businesses by selling agricultural products mainly the citrus fruits. The demand

for the citrus fruits is too high because, Darwaz is the only place in GBAO where they are grown. MSDSP is

continuing to implement the natural resources management and rural economic development projects in this

and other area of GBAO through the other funding resources, through which the theoretical knowledge can be

practically replicated by implementing the NRM projects.

xiii

Overall Conclusions and Recommendations

The project did positively impact the participants and beneficiaries in many aspects and achieved most of its

objectives. Specifically, awareness raising on climate change and gender parameters got increased in the area.

Similarly, women are economically and politically empowered to cope with extreme weather events and other

effects of climate change in vulnerable areas in Darwaz.

However, some of the areas and group of peoples are still left behind. Overall, the summary points for

discussion or any policy implications are as follows:

Design and updating of high school’s curriculum inclusion gender and climate change topic to it;

Broadcasting television programs on climate change topics showcasing examples from Darwaz cases;

Conducting more trainings on climate change and gender in village levels;

Developing natural resources management projects addressing climate change adaptation practices;

Increasing economic opportunities for local women;

Continuing the cross-border exchange visits.

xiv

Annexes Annex 1: List of Literature Reviewed The following key documents were reviewed by the evaluation team:

Project proposal

Assessment report on differential effects of climate change

Monitoring reports Annex 2: Evaluation Checklist

Questions for Focus Group Discussions 1) To what extent the implemented activities have been relevant for you? Please bring examples. 2) What additional activities you think should be addressed through the project? 3) Have you using the gained knowledge during your daily lives? 4) What positive experience on climate change adaptation you have learned during the visit to

Afghanistan which could be replicated in your villages? 5) Does the project have impact your livelihood? 6) Did you disseminate the learned knowledge among other peoples? (Please specify which

persons) 7) In your opinion, is it necessary to keep learned experience in near, mid or a long future? 8) Did you receive full information regarding the topics? If yes, which one? If no, which one? 9) Have you seen the partnership between entities during the implementation process?

Questions for key informant interviews 1) What is the relevance or significance of the development intervention regarding local and

national requirements and priorities? 2) To what extent does the intervention comply with development policy and planning of the

recipient country? 3) How did the organizations harmonize and coordinate their interventions with Local authorities

(LA’s)? 4) What additional activities you think should be addressed through the project? 5) In your opinion, is it necessary to keep learned experience in near, mid or a long future? 6) Your recommendations for the future in this direction?

xv

Annex 3: List of Group Discussion participants

# Sub-district Village Name Age Occupation

1 Nulvand Ushkharv Karimova Sadaf 43 Nurse

2 Nulvand Sangevn Rahmatulloeva H 53 Librarian

3 Nulvand Khostav Nidoeva S 56 Housewife

4 Nulvand Shirgovad Safarova M 46 Housewife

5 Nulvand Nulvand Zolimshoeva N 32 Medical nurse

6 Nulvand Nulvand Khalilova M 35 Housewife

7 Nulvand Zighar Saidrahmonova 49 Women leader

8 Nulvand Yoged Quwatkhonova Z 35 Business lady

9 Qalai Khum Qalai Khum Nematova M 43 Head of CIG "Duzanda"

10 Qalai Khum Zing Shokirova Q 39 Women leader

11 Qalai Khum Punidu Mizonova M 49 Women leader

12 Qalai Khum Qalai Khum Nurmamadova M 52 Women leader

13 Qalai Khum Durobak Rahmatova M 42 Women leader

14 Qalai Khum Zingrogh Sultonova O 40 Women leader

15 Qalai Khum Ruzvai Vazirova S 51 Women leader

16 Qalai Khum Umarak Bahonova O 59 Women leader

17 Viskharv Vishkharv Khudonazarova G 51 Teacher

18 Viskharv Vishkharv Halovatova S 40 Housewife

19 Viskharv Vishkharv Kholova Gulzor 49 Housewife

20 Viskharv Vishkharv Berdiev M 34 LA Secretary

21 Viskharv Toghmai Muhtojova Z 39 Teacher

22 Viskharv Jorf Marjonai Musamar 20 Doctor

23 Viskharv Kevron Kholova B 43 Housewife

Annex 4: List of Key Informant participants

# Name Position

1 Sadullo Saifulloev Deputy Chairman of Darwaz district

2 Kholov Suhrob Head of Nature Protection Department

3 Olimshoev Abdusamad Head of Department of Trade and Economic development

4 Dilorom Amrikhudoeva Head of Women Committee

i

ANNEX 2: PROJECT ASSESSMENT REPORT

Research Study Report: Variations in the Influence of Climate Change on the Household Economy

and the Wellbeing of Women and Men

Support for adapting ability of women to economical and ecological influence of the climate

change in Darwaz District

Variations in the Influence of Climate Change on Household

Economy and Wellbeing of Women and Men

ii

Introduction

Goal

Climate change inserts influence on both women and men and this influence is different in different

cases on each of the two [gender] groups. Yet, mostly its influence on women is relatively higher. For

instance, since carrying potable water in the target area is women’s responsibility, in cases of drought

the women will need to cover longer distances in order to get water. As an influence of the climate

change, in household duties such as cooking, laundry, [some] challenges/ difficulties will be created.

On the other hand, since under the prevailing circumstances women constitute the main labour force in

the rural economy, climate change may directly [and negatively] affect productivity of agricultural

goods. This in turn, results in psychological effects on women.

Furthermore, in the currently prevailing circumstances when majority of the men of the area region are

in labour migration and women compose the main labour force out there on the land, it is notably this

sector of the household economy that is struck most severely by climate change.

This research has been conducted with the aim of indentifying the trend of climate change in the area

under the focus of the programme and climate change’s effects on the household economy, but

especially its effects on women. Throughout this research women’s and men’s observation in regard

with the climate change and the principles of their adaptation to the influences of climate change in

Darwaz District has been identified.

Another goal of conducting this research is identification of the farmers’ experiences in regard with

mitigation of the effect of the climate change [on peoples’ life] that is relevant to the local conditions.

Methodology

In this research two types of information, quantitative and qualitative information have been collected.

[All the social strata] have been engaged – chairpersons of Village Organizations, leaders of Women

Groups, [other] leaders, staff members of Governmental agencies, [in particular] the staff of state

structures whose duties are directly related to the climate change (Environment Protection Committee,

Emergency Situation Response, Rural Economy Department, Land Management Committee) and

residents of the three Village Jamats, where the programme has been implemented. Qualitative

information encompasses the general trend of the process and its description. The information has been

obtained through conducting interviews and from the interviewees’ own observations as well as from

studying [special] literature.

Quantitative information comprehends all the measurable information, their comparisons as well as

their relation to other measures. In this research information on climate change, such as changes in

temperature, frequency of precipitations, change in the number of sources of water etc. have been

collected.

iii

Information/ Data collection

Information/ Data collection for this research has taken place through conducting interviews with

beneficiaries and representatives of the governmental structures. In this research the information has

been collected by conducting 100 interviews with different partners. In particular, forty (40 out of 100)

are women (headed household), who are direct beneficiaries of this programme. Another forty (40) are

chairpersons of the Village Organizations and the rest twenty (20) are main representatives as well as

activists.

During the survey ways of improving/ developing relationship between the popular/ social

organisations and government related structures on adaptation to the climate change have been revealed

and identified.

The use of the questionnaire has been identified as a very effective means of collecting huge amount of

information. In addition, in order to obtain detailed information, group discussions with various strata

of the population have been organised. The outcome of inquiring women on climate change in the

district influences and motivates further activities/ work with the women.

Sixty-two (62) women and thirty-eight (38) men have been covered in the survey. This action enabled

us to grasp how the interviewees’ understanding of the climate change has been refined, and once more

have responsible introspection on their actions. Men have been encompassed in the survey for the

reason of identifying the differences/ variations of the impact of the climate change on men and women

in this region as well as for the reason of comparison of their views with those of women.

Forty-eight (48) respondents have tertiary education, thirty-five (35) have secondary education and

seventeen (17) possess specialised education. In addition, people from different age groups have been

covered in the research, from among which fourteen (14) respondents belong to the age group 25-30,

thirty-nine (39) respondent belong to the age group 30-45 and forty-seven (47) are over 45.

As a result of the survey three main indexes/ factors of the climate change, which have negatively

affected the wellbeing of the population, have been identified. These are: 1) change in weather

temperature; 2) drought and decrease in the number of sources of irrigation and drinking water; and 3)

occurrence of strong winds. In addition, during the research the ways of adaptation to and mitigation of

the impact of the climate change on the standards of life of the population have been fully studied.

Unfortunately, from among the respondents only five respondents expressed their impression from the

climate change positively, the rest ninety-five (95) have appraised the impact of climate change in

negative terms.

In particular, forty-six (46) women and twenty-one (21) men among the respondents expressed their

view that cold weather and high precipitations caused increase of diseases in the families, which causes

crisis in family budget. As a result of the impact of this reason/ index, animal and poultry diseases also

increase, which brings about their losses, which, in turn, naturally results in complications in the life of

iv

people. Therefore, due to the impact of climate change gender relations in the family become altered.

The resultant family discords and conflicts lead even to psychological disorders, cases of which have

been detected both among women and men.

Women and men ratio in regards with the climate change in this direction varies and nearly all

respondents’ [impressions] from the impact of one or another factor [of climate change], such as

increase of diseases, negative impacts on agriculture, loss of animals, destruction of residential

building, destruction of the fruit and poultry productions and inharmonious gender relation vary from

each other.

Eighty-four (84) respondents identified as the indicator of climate change drought and lack of water in

the localities and appraised the anxious impacts of this on the life of people, particularly on women.

Due to the impact of this indicator, major part of the harvest has been destroyed, which brings about

serious difficulties for the women of rural areas. People, particularly women, in these conditions even

bear psychological hardships, because in the most cases agricultural works/ activities are considered as

the foundational basis of the family provisions.

Indicators of climate change Gender Education Affected

by climate

change Men Women Tertiary Secondar

y

Specialised

secondary

Respondents (number) 38 62 48 35 17 74

Coldness and high level of

precipitation [leave] psychological

impact on gender relations

21 46 31 24 12 31

- increase in diseases in the family 23 21 18 16 10 14

- damage on agriculture 35 39 26 31 17 58

- disease and losses of animals 21 23 10 20 14 44

- destruction of the residential and

ancillary buildings

16 17 15 8 10 33

- destruction and losses of trees

and fruits

18 21 13 9 17 39

- losses in poultry population 29 31 21 22 17 60

- disharmony in gender relations 25 42 27 23 17 26

v

Indicators of climate change Gender Education Affected

by

climate

change

Men Women Tertiary Secondary Specialised

secondary

Drought and decrease in water

resources and its impact on gender

relations

35 49 31 36 17 33

Impact of the

- Decrease in village water 26 29 10 31 14 55

- Destruction of vegetables and

fruit trees (as a result of lack of

water)

7 11 5 8 5 18

- Decrease of forage/ fodder 24 26 17 21 12 50

- Destruction of pastures 31 35 28 24 14 66

- Eruption of people, animal and

poultry diseases

17 21 14 17 7 31

- Decrease in harvest 31 39 33 24 13 70

- Mud flow/ torrent 14 14 5 12 11 23

- Increase of conflicts in the

village, especially among the

women

33 45 36 27 15 35

From the table below it becomes known that the outcomes of drought and decrease in the amount of

water causes occurrence of other disasters, which are negatively affecting standards and quality of

people’s life. In particular, decrease or drought of some of the water sources, which previously were

used as sources of both drinking as well as irrigation water, causes limitations in regard with the

availability of clean drinking water as well as cause decrease in agricultural productivity. For instance,

drought results in degradation of pastures and, as a result of which, decrease in productivity of animal

husbandry. As comes from analysis of the questionnaires, in the target region, sixty-six (66)

respondents share their ideas in regard with degradation of pastures, thirty-one (31) respondents in

regard with eruption of animal as well as human diseases and seventy (70) respondents about the

decrease in the crops of the rural economy.

vi

It has been noticed that as a result of strong winds roofing of residential and ancillary buildings has

been damaged, and that not all the households have had the ability to restore it. Forty-eight (48)

respondents have expressed their concern that as an impact of the climate change, the weather has

changed and unknown infectious diseases have spread. People have acknowledged climate change and

in majority of cases they have taken adapting precautions. Such conditions allow that best practices/

successful experiments are spread [and adopted]. One such an experiment/ practice has been observed

in Village Organization of Anjirak. A village resident, Qurbongul, is a hard working woman, who

takes the products of her labour, with the help of her husband to the market for making a living. In the

locality that she resides (Village Organization Anjirak), there is only one small spring, and further

down there is a land area. In order to save water, Qurbongul has dug a lake, and in cases the water is

not enough, makes use of that lake. She has organised condensed irrigation for the trees, she

purposefully cultivates trees that have low demand for water. On the day of our visit, the trees were

flowering and Qurbongul had been satisfied with the measures she had undertaken. In order to study

this successful experiment/ practice we have conducted a training “Gender and Climate Change” for

the women-leaders in Qurbongul’s house, and managed to visually demonstrate to the participants the

results of her adaptations [to climate change].

Fifty-seven (57) respondents have referred to/ analysed another indicator of the climate change,

occurrence of the strong/ powerful winds. Mainly, the respondents shared their ideas on such impacts

of the strong/ powerful winds as the damage to the roofing, breaking and withering of trees, breaking of

the electro-power lines.

Indicators of climate change Gender Education Affected by

climate change

Men Women Tertiary

Secondary

Specialise

d secondary

Strong/ powerful winds, vortexes, mud rains and its impact on gender relations and psychological conditions of women

22 35 26 16 15 25

- Demolition of the roofing of residential and ancillary buildings

14 17 10 10 11 25

- weather of the localities turn poor

23 25 18 14 16 48

- Breaking trees 15 18 15 11 7 33

- Breaking the energy lines 29 29 29 21 8 58

- Withering of trees and vegetables

34 41 41 23 11 74

- Family conflicts and women’s affliction with psychological disorders

23 49 31 25 16 11

vii

Conducting the survey brought about the possibility of revealing good experience/ practices of the

household economy. Participants in the study have passionately learnt this experience/ practice and

majority of them intend to implement such a practice in their household economy.

Another outcome of the survey is that during the survey women especially brought to the fourth the

idea of [necessity] of accounting for the family budget and count the income and expenditure of the

family budget on a daily basis and have conducted extended discussions around this issue. This idea

has already found support among the people and eleven families have already commenced the

experiment/ practice. Some other significant part/ number have approached the MSDSP for facilitating

the experiment/ practice. Currently MSDSP has been designing a plan to promote this practice among

the people. The issue has been subjected to scrutiny in eighteen meetings of the Village Organization

and forty-seven meetings of women groups. On the part of MSDSP staff members, it is the educating

as well as actually supporting those who have the accounting of the family budget that are being

accomplished.

During conducting the survey it was felt that in order to raise the standards of life and adapt to the

impacts of climate change, stance and position of women is the most important factor. Collecting food

stuff, fuel and finances is closely connected to gender relations and to the women understanding of the

financial accounting. After the survey finished, people’s and especially women’s interest in accounting

and programme designing increased. The villages women took more products to the market, has used

their produced goods much more effectively/ efficiently and made savings and efficiency the motto of

life.

General characteristics of climate change observed in the region

Changes in temperature, excessive coldness as sudden rise of the temperature above norms

Change in frequency of raining

Increase in the volume of snowing and raining

[Rise] in the number of hydro-meteorological occurrences as a result of climate change

Blowing of strong/ powerful winds and rise of dust/ mud in atmosphere

Reduction in the number of water sources

Impact of climate change on the wellbeing (quality of life) of women now and in near future

The outcomes of the survey demonstrate that climate change has had strong impact on the wellbeing of

households from both economic and social perspectives. Since agriculture and animal husbandry are

considered to be the two basic sources of income for the households, first of all from decrease or

degradation of the agricultural harvests as well as losses of the animals, great blow will be incurred on

the family budget. Obtaining low amount of forage herbs and rise of prices for them in the local

market causes decrease in the number of animals the households can afford to keep for winter time,

viii

which [also] has negative impact on the family budget. Moreover, from the above mentioned indexes it

becomes clear that climate change even causes outbreak of family conflicts and of psychological

disorders, which can directly causes lowering of the quality of life of the households.

Conclusions:

During conducting the survey it feels that people, and especially the women, in order to adapt to the

climate change accomplish certain activities by having taken adapting precautions in their planning

designs. Yet this activity takes place step by step. Since the majority of the men of the family are in

[labour] migration and there is lack of labour power in the locality, the family budget also does not

allow for speedy adaptation [to climate change]. In addition, climate change that according to the

respondents is manifested in three forms, poses threat to the life of the majority of respondents within

the mountainous conditions of the district. The position of the Village Organization during the

adaptation process has been appraised as valuable. ADB has been appraised as the basis for financial

aid for people in cases of climate change. General meetings spread information, [they became] means

of coming together for the women and facilitated work and experience exchange with each other.

Good and practical answers that have been given in one area during the survey, have been presented in

other areas and an attempt was made to introduce a burst in the minds of people in regard with

adaptation to climate change.

Table 1: Observations of women headed household on climate change in Darwaz District

Frequency of coldness and high weather temperature

Snowing and raining above normal

Rise of the level of water in the rivers above norms

Inefficiency of the arable land

Inefficiency and loss of the fertility of the orchards

Occurrence of strong/ powerful winds and dust/ mud in the atmosphere

Emergence of all sorts of noxious insects

Withering of trees

Decrease in the number of sources of drinking and irrigation water

Withering of pastures

Outbreak of infectious diseases in domestic animals and poultry

Decrease in reproduction rate of domestic animals and poultry

ix

Outbreak of sorts of diseases in trees and crops

Mud rains

Instable weather – frequent weather change

Rise in the volume of the lakes’ water

Reduction in wildlife population in natural habitat

Outbreak of various sorts of infectious diseases among people, especially children

Formation of rifts in soil in some regions

Excessive (and felt) humidity in atmosphere

Table 2: Standards (principles) of adaptation of the women headed household in regard to impacts

of climate change

Organisation of financial accounting in the family budget

Sufficient resources of food, fuel, finance in the family

Organisation of the trickle irrigation in the withered regions

Planting of trees adapted to the changing climate (subtropical)

Organisation of insulation in residential buildings

Engaging women in business/ entrepreneurship

Organisation of activist groups among women

Best practice and technology exchange

Use of the sun’s heat

Use of energy efficient stoves

Achieving gender balance in the family and public places

Following the sanitation regulations in the residential area

Planting forests

x

Consolidation of people in self-governing structures

Systematise activities of the governmental agencies/ structures and institutions of civil society

Organisation of strengthening of river banks

Connecting productions with the market

Setting up communication system between localities

Improving population’s level of knowledge about climate change and ways of adapting to it

Table 3: Principles of adaptation and struggle against the impacts of climate change

Food, fuel, fodder and finance collection for family needs

Planting of trees adapted to climate change

Organisation of the insulation system in houses, use of energy efficient stoves

Use of light-weight roofing

Engaging women in business/ entrepreneurship

Use of measures against animal and crop diseases

Achieving gender balance in the family and public places

Practice of efficient use of [family] budget and food in the households

xi

Appendix 1: List of participants

№ Jamaat Initials Age Employment/ Duty, place of

work

1. Qalai Khum Parvina Islomova 33 Cleaner

2. Qalai Khum Chiyonbubi Bachajonova 55 Farmer

3. Qalai Khum Namoyon Vazirova 72 Pensioner

4. Qalai Khum Katagul Shoimardova 33 Businesswoman

5. Qalai Khum Zarina Mirzoeva 38 Teacher

6. Qalai Khum Muqaddas Ne’monova 46 VO Accounter

7. Qalai Khum Rasuljon Shokirov 29 Executive (governmental

agency)

8. Qalai Khum Sharofat Yusupova 54 Chairperson of women group

9. Qalai Khum Zaidullo Abdulloev 56 Deputy headmaster

10. Qalai Khum Saidali Safaraliev 69 Accountant

11. Qalai Khum Aboskhon Sikandarov 56 Teacher, Chair of МХЧ

12. Qalai Khum Khaibatsho Vatanov 69 Teacher

13. Qalai Khum Mahmadali Juraev 58 Teacher, Chair of VO

14. Qalai Khum Oinamo Baronova 59 Farmer

15. Qalai Khum Shohusain Safarov 42 Chair of VO

16. Qalai Khum Sultonsho Badaliev 60 Head of Administration of the

Chairman of the District

17. Qalai Khum

Khurshed Begov 33 Chair of VO – Head of

Headquarters

18. Qalai Khum Mirzoabdullo Habibulloev 35 Farmer

19. Qalai Khum Mirzo Khushvakhtov 57 Head of SUDVO «Nurovar»

20. Qalai Khum Davlatpocho Shouzbakova 45 Businesswoman

21. Qalai Khum Ahmadjon Odinaev 43 Businesswoman - Farmer

22. Qalai Khum Burhonkhoja Safarov 56 Teacher - Chair of МХЧ

23. Qalai Khum Surayo Shoeva 49 Deputy Chairman of the

District

24. Qalai Khum Muhtojsho Pirunshoev 70 Pensioner

25. Qalai Khum Sa’dullo Saifulloev 53 First Deputy Chair of District

26. Qalai Khum

Mahiston Amirshoeva 43 Farmer – Leader of Women

Group

27. Qalai Khum Nazrisho Ne’monov 58 Teacher of mathematics

28. Qalai Khum Sadafmo Abdulloeva 43 Leader

29. Qalai Khum

Avsamad Olimshoev 53 Manager of Agriculture

Department

30. Qalai Khum

Ruzigul Saidmirova 49 Manager of Archive

Department

31. Qalai Khum Muslima Amirbegova 39 Leader

32. Qalai Khum Maisara Mizonova 49 Leader of Women Group

33. Qalai Khum Gulshan Ashurova 55 Women Leader

34. Qalai Khum Ra’no Karimova 50 Farmer

35. Qalai Khum Khubon Mahmadova 49 Economist, Sodirot Bank

36. Qalai Khum Zamira Musofirova 26 Teacher

37. Qalai Khum Parvina Nazirova 25 Businesswoman

38. Qalai Khum Hikoyat Alimahmadova 24 Farmer

39. Qalai Khum Barno Karimova 42 Farmer

xii

40. Qalai Khum Dilorom Amrikhudoeva 43 Leader of Women Group

41. Qalai Khum Sadafmo Karimova 43 Nurse in a medical centre

42. Qalai Khum Shahlo Hakimova 39 Nurse

43. Qalai Khum Mohinav Khudoidodova 42 Leader of Women Group

44. Qalai Khum Mohkhunim Nurmahmadova 52 Leader

45. Qalai Khum Saili Vazirova 50 Leader

46. Qalai Khum Oinamo Mahmadchiyonova 59 Leader of Women Group

47. Qalai Khum Mehri Rahmatova 35 Employee of Amonat Bank

48. Qalai Khum Munira Shokarimova 42 Librarian, manager

49. Qalai Khum Mohira Shokarimova 33 Businesswoman

50. Qalai Khum Pogiza Safarova 52 Businesswoman, Leader,

Leader of Women Group

51. Qalai Khum Khijolat Sherova 60 Pensioner

52. Qalai Khum Davlatmo Roziqova 48 Farmer

53. Qalai Khum Savsan Muhabbatova 49 Leader of Women Group

54. Qalai Khum Shahri Qodirova 51 Manager, Department of social

development

55. Qalai Khum

Surayo Shoeva 49 Deputy Chairman of the

District

56. Nulvand Mahbuba Khalilova 32 Leader

57. Nulvand Pareshon Mavlonova 57 Farmer, Leader of Women

Group

58. Nulvand Davlatkhon Davlatov 53 Chair of МХЧ

59. Nulvand Qurbonbubi Khayonova 36 Teacher

60. Nulvand Maijon Safarova 47 Leader

61. Nulvand Khadisa Rahmatulloeva 53 Nulvand

62. Nulvand Rahmonuddin Rahmuddinov 56 Teacher

63. Nulvand Jumabek Khotamov 57 Teacher

64. Nulvand Shodmonbubi Odinaeva 50 Farmer

65. Nulvand Noziya Saidrahmonova 48 Leader of Women Group

66. Nulvand Alisher Vazirov 37 Artist

67. Nulvand Saidmuhamad Majidov 45 Teacher of Crasting

68. Nulvand Amirkalon Kalonov 51 Commutator

69. Nulvand Igolbubi Salimbegova 53 Farmer

70. Nulvand Mavjuda Tosheva 58 Teacher

71. Nulvand Bibigul Afghonova 51 Leader of Women Group

72. Nulvand Langarsho Musamirov 57 Chair of МХЧ

73. Nulvand Shodmonbek Odinaev 44 Head of PO "Shikay"

74. Nulvand Saidahmad Izzatov 51 Driver

75. Nulvand Alovuddin Afghonov 52 Chairperson of Nulvand

Jamaat

76. Vishkharv Ma’rifat Nazirova 34 Agriculturalist

77. Vishkharv Bibsoramo Anvarova 72 Pensioner

78. Vishkharv Anvara Pirunshoeva 52 Agriculturalist

79. Vishkharv Buston Kholova 48 Leader, Leader of Women

Group

80. Vishkharv Manzura Sayorabekova 46 Leader of Women Group

81. Vishkharv Khuronbubi Sharopova 53 Agriculturalist, Leader

82. Vishkharv Maina Saifova 40 Agriculturalist

xiii

83. Vishkharv Gulnora Khudonazarova 51 Teacher

84. Vishkharv Muqadas Zaripova 56 Agriculturalist

85. Vishkharv Gulzor Kholova 49 Agriculturalist

86. Vishkharv Omina Mirzoeva 40 Farmer

87. Vishkharv Iroda Nazrieva 43 Farmer

88. Vishkharv Avaz Idiev 57 Veterinarian

89. Vishkharv Mohijahon Saidabrorova 34 Agriculturalist

90. Vishkharv Toirsho Jalilov 52 Chairperson of Vishkharv

Jamaat

91. Vishkharv Maqsadjon Rizvonov 50 Head of PO «Obodkor»

92. Vishkharv Rahmatbubi Karimova 55 Technologist

93. Vishkharv Akhtam Davlatov 53 Agronomist

94. Vishkharv Emomuddin Habibov 35 Teacher

95. Vishkharv Suhrob Khollov 53 Head of the Environmental

Protection Office

96. Vishkharv Saidahmad Safarov 52 Teacher

97. Vishkharv Dilshod Ibronov 33 Teacher

98. Vishkharv Faizullo Hamidulloev 55 Agronomist

99. Vishkharv Gulru Shekhova 42 Flowmeter in the Hydro-

Meteorological Service

100. Vishkharv Zulfiya Saifova 46 Leader of Women Group

xiv

Appendix 2: Questionnaire for semi-structured interview:

Brief information on the participant: Please, provide brief information about your family and yourself

(main employment, land area, garden, and crops you cultivate)?

Please, provide brief information about your employment, form of household (How much land do you

have? What products do you grow?)?

Have you observed indicators of the climate change in your area in recent years? If yes, what are they?

How do you appraise these changes?

Have these changes impacted your employment [status]/ your household economy? If yes, how? (Try

to have your interviewee speak as much as possible about actual/ practical examples from his/ her

experience).

You can say how the form of your household economy has varied under the impact of climate change

in different seasons (winter, spring, summer, autumn).

Who takes more responsibility (engaged in the work) for household economy (agriculture) under the

conditions of climate change?

How do you adapt in response to climate change? (Try to have your interviewee bring more examples

from his/ her experience). Is it hard? Why is it hard?

In your view, how climate change will impact your household economy (agricultural employment) in

near future?

In your opinion, what is the role(-s) of Village Organization, Village Development Plan, ADB, general

and [rural] jamaati meetings in the process of adaptation to climate change?