The project aims to accelerate the transition from traditional irrigation methods to modern, efficient and smart irrigation systems, improving water use efficiency and strengthening resilience of farming communities. 

The project introduces an innovative, integrated model that combines 

• digital water management solutions, including monitoring and data-driven irrigation water accounting, 

• pilot deployment of modern and smart irrigation technologies aimed at reducing water losses and improving water-use efficiency,

• a capacity-building infrastructure through regional centers of modern irrigation.  

The project also promotes the development of an enabling business ecosystem for irrigation services and technologies, encouraging private-sector participation and local expertise in the design, assembly, construction, and maintenance of modern systems.

By combining technology pilots, capacity building, and regulatory and institutional development, the project contributes to sustainable water governance and climate adaptation objectives. It supports improved allocation and use of water resources, reduces vulnerability of agricultural production to drought and water shortages, and advances environmental and development outcomes aligned with SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and other sustainable development priorities. The project is designed to be scalable at the national level and replicable across Central Asia.

Project’s Immediate Impact Area: Republic of Kazakhstan – irrigation-dependent agricultural regions; primary beneficiaries include farmers, agribusinesses, water management agencies, and rural communities.