From September to December 2024, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in collaboration with the Centre for Sociological Research “Zerkalo,” conducted a comprehensive survey in rural Tajikistan to explore the interactions of smallholder farmers with information and communication technologies (ICT). The study aimed to understand the awareness, attitudes, usage patterns, barriers to access, and perceptions of the benefits of ICT among farmers.
The findings from this large-scale study were presented on December 17, 2024, during a joint workshop titled Digital Agriculture in Tajikistan: Results of a Large-Scale Study with Smallholder Farmers and Joint Development of Recommendations in Dushanbe. This event marked a significant step in understanding the digitalization of agriculture in the country. The full results of the study will be compiled into a publication, expected for release in 2025.
The workshop was part of the FAO project Support to the Implementation of the National Digital Agriculture Strategy of Tajikistan: Empowering Farmers Through Data and AI Solutions, launched in 2024. The project supports the implementation of the national digital agriculture roadmap, which aims to modernize the agricultural sector through the adoption of digital tools. FAO recognizes the transformative potential of ICT in agriculture, particularly for enhancing productivity, promoting sustainable farming practices, and improving food security. By organizing this workshop, FAO sought to assist the Government of Tajikistan and other stakeholders in advancing a digital agenda that empowers farmers and fosters a more resilient agricultural sector.
The study covered over 1,400 small and medium dehkan farms across Tajikistan, providing valuable insights into how farmers interact with digital technologies. The workshop highlighted these findings and served as a platform for stakeholders—including farmers, policymakers, technology providers, and experts—to discuss and co-create recommendations for expanding access to ICT and promoting its effective use in agriculture.
Key barriers to ICT adoption identified in the study include limited awareness of the benefits of digital tools, challenges in accessing affordable mobile and internet services, the high cost of devices, and a lack of support and training. However, the study also identified factors that could enable greater ICT adoption, such as increased awareness of the benefits of technology, the availability of accessible mobile services, and affordable internet connectivity.
Participants at the workshop discussed these barriers and formulated practical recommendations to address them. The goal was to expand access to ICT, particularly in rural areas, and to promote the adoption of technologies that could improve productivity, enhance market linkages, and support sustainable agricultural practices. By focusing on the needs of smallholder farmers, the workshop aimed to design interventions that could help bridge the digital divide and ensure that farmers can take full advantage of the digital tools available to them.
Veronika Sherova, FAO Digital Development Specialist, emphasized the importance of the collaborative efforts in addressing the knowledge and technology gaps faced by smallholder farmers. By leveraging data collected from the survey, especially insights into the main barriers to ICT access and usage, the Government of Tajikistan, FAO, and other development partners can design targeted interventions. These interventions would enhance access to digital tools, improve agricultural practices, and help farmers overcome challenges to adopting new technologies.
The workshop also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss the key enablers of ICT adoption in farming. One of the most important enablers is the provision of accessible mobile and internet services, which can help farmers stay connected to the latest agricultural information and market opportunities. Additionally, affordable devices and internet access are critical for ensuring that smallholder farmers can use digital tools to improve their farming practices. Support and training programs are also crucial to ensure that farmers can effectively use ICT in their daily operations.
The event marked a significant milestone in advancing the digital transformation of Tajikistan’s agricultural landscape. By focusing on smallholder farmers, who form the backbone of the country’s agricultural production, the workshop highlighted the importance of empowering farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. The recommendations developed during the workshop will serve as a foundation for future efforts to expand digital agriculture in Tajikistan and ensure that farmers can benefit from the full potential of ICT.
In conclusion, the FAO’s efforts in Tajikistan are helping to shape a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector through the adoption of digital technologies. The collaborative approach, involving various stakeholders, aims to address the barriers faced by smallholder farmers and create an environment where ICT can be used to enhance agricultural productivity, improve market access, and support sustainable practices. As the country continues its digital transformation, these efforts will play a crucial role in ensuring that smallholder farmers are equipped to meet the challenges of the future.
