Oxfam's work in Tajikistan in depth

Tajikistan is the poorest of the former Soviet Republics. The economy has deteriorated dramatically since the end of Soviet rule – and made worse by civil war during the 1990s and extended periods of drought. The Khatlon region is home to some of the poorest and most vulnerable people who live at a subsistence level. Oxfam is working with them, so that they can produce more food, and be better protected when threatened by natural disaster.

Oxfam in Tajikistan

Oxfam began working in Tajikistan in 2001, following two years of drought. We concentrate our programme in Khatlon Oblast, where some of the poorest people live, and rates of migration in search of work are high. We help people to make a living from agriculture, and work with rural communities so that they are ready to be better prepared for natural disasters, and we respond to emergencies such as earthquakes and outbreaks of disease. Crucially for such a disaster-prone region, we aim to improve health and living conditions, and reduce the outbreak of water-borne diseases.

Living off the land

Many families rely on growing fruit and vegetables in small ‘kitchen gardens’ – for their own consumption, and to sell for much-needed income. But it is a struggle to grow enough in the face of drought and poor harvests. Farmers are developing their plots, after having received innovative training in techniques for crop production, and how to harness the low rainfall to best effect. Oxfam also provides seeds and tools – even tractors – and encourages the formation of producer associations that supports whole communities. In particular, we work with women-headed households, as they tend to be among the most vulnerable.

Life and security

The power of nature is definitely a force to be reckoned with in Tajikistan – the country is prone to floods, earthquakes, landslides, and avalanches. We are working with rural communities to be better prepared for such disasters, and more able to respond.

When an earthquake struck southern Tajikistan in 2006, at least 15,000 people were left homeless – 125 out of 139 families in Zamini Nav village lost their homes and most of their belongings. Oxfam sent out boxes full of non-food items such as cooking utensils and blankets to tide them over until they could start to rebuild their lives.

Such a large number of homes were lost because they were not constructed with strong enough foundations to withstand tremors. Mr Mahmadnazar’s home was among those that were destroyed. He explains why: “We don’t have money or the knowledge to build earthquake-proof houses.” Oxfam created a house design that is earthquake resistant and yet quick and simple to build. With new materials and technical assistance the villagers are now rebuilding their homes to last. And early warning systems are being put in place so that people can take action to help protect them from the threat of disaster.

Water, sanitation and public health

Villages across Khatlon Oblat have set up their own Water Committees to look after and maintain facilities – such as wells, tap-stands and latrines – that Oxfam has repaired or installed. And we’ve equipped schools and health clinics with toilets.

Last updated: July 08