Taraz, Kazakhstan – On October 15, a cross-border training on climate-resilient integrated water resources management (IWRM) was held for specialists from the basin inspections of Kazakhstan and the main water management departments of Kyrgyzstan responsible for the management and protection of water resources in the Chu and Talas river basins. This training was the first in a series of capacity-building activities planned for implementation by the end of 2025.
The main objectives of the training were to provide participants with practical knowledge for a better understanding of the IWRM concept in the context of climate change, tools for improving water use efficiency, and technologies for rational water use, as well as to strengthen cross-border cooperation through dialogue and experience exchange.
The training was conducted by water management experts from Central Asian countries, including Vadim Sokolov (IWRM expert), Azamat Kauazov (GIS expert), Alexey Shablovsky (automation expert), and Mirobit Mirdadaev (rational water use expert).
Participants learned about the latest technologies in irrigation and land reclamation, as well as the accounting and distribution of irrigation water. During the training, the capabilities of automated systems that can enhance water use efficiency in agriculture were presented.
In addition, the training covered the fundamentals of international water law and the experiences of Central Asian countries in implementing IWRM principles. Participants also became familiar with modern web-GIS services for managing climate risks.
It is important to note that the training emphasized the role of women in water resources management. Participants discussed the importance of an inclusive approach and gender equality in basin planning.
Additional information about the project:
From 2024 to 2026, the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (CAREC) is implementing Component 2 of the regional project “Climate-Resilient Water Resources Management in Central Asia,” funded by the German Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) on behalf of the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany and co-financed by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).
The project’s goal is to enhance the capacity of regional and national water sector specialists in Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) considering climate impacts.
As part of the project, 24 gender-sensitive training sessions will be conducted at national, cross-border, and regional levels.
Contact person: Irina Yugai, Project Manager (Water Initiatives Support Program), wisspecialist@carececo.org.
