At a glance
- 460 million plunge in Tajikistan's income
- Early freeze hits potatoes in Rasht valley
- 11,000 people sensitized on diarrhea prevention in Sughd and Rasht valley
- 3,000 children at risk in school
- 390,000 people still severely food insecure
Current issues
$ 460 million plunge in Tajikistan's income
According to media reports, Ghulomjon Bobozoda, Minister of Economic Development and Trade, said that Tajikistan's income had dropped by $ 460 million over the first eight months of this year compared to last year, due to a drop in the prices and the demand for the country's primary export commodities. The Minister pointed out that the prices of aluminum and cotton fiber fell by 46 % and 19 % respectively over this period, and exports were reduced by 43 % compared to the same period of last year.
He added that the shrinking demand for migrant labor outside the country, another consequence of the global economic and financial crisis, had resulted in a 35 % decrease of remittances to Tajikistan over the first seven months of 2009.
Early freeze hits potatoes in Rasht valley
An early freeze hit several jamoats in Jirgatol, Tajikabad and Rasht districts, Rasht valley, on 10 September. Harsh winds blowing down from the mountains literally froze potato plants, putting an end to the growing season for the tubers. Farmers expect to harvest only half of the usual 20 to 25 tons yield of one hectare. The damaged potatoes are still edible but can not be stored or used for seeds.
Next to the hundreds of hectares of potatoes frozen, wheat, maize and vegetable crops also suffered from the adverse weather conditions. The Defense (CoES) is conducting an assessment to establish the full extent of the damage and the potential need for assistance of the affected farmers' families.
For more information: cedric.charpentier@wfp.org