LocationsValidation Workshop Held in Bishkek for a New UNDP–GEF Conservation Project
January 30, 2026
Umut Zholdoshova, UNDP project coordinator, gives a presentation to workshop participants
Bishkek, 30 January 2026 — How can rare species be conserved, protected areas strengthened, and mountain communities supported under climate change conditions? These questions were addressed during a validation workshop dedicated to the preparation of a new UNDP–GEF project, “Strengthening Nature Conservation in the Mountain Areas of Central and Eastern Kyrgyzstan.”
The workshop brought together more than 50 participants, including representatives of government agencies, international organizations, non-governmental organizations, the scientific community, and environmental activists.
The Kyrgyz Republic continues to play an active role at the global level as one of the leading advocates of the mountain agenda. The new project will contribute to the country’s implementation of international environmental commitments.
“Biodiversity conservation is a strategic priority for the Kyrgyz Republic. This project strengthens our capacity to achieve national objectives while fulfilling international commitments, including the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the mountain agenda,” said Almaz Musaev, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Almaz Musaev, Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic
The project is planned as part of the eighth replenishment cycle of the Global Environment Facility. It is designed for four years and, subject to approval, is expected to receive approximately USD 2.2 million. The project aims to conserve the unique biodiversity of mountain ecosystems in northern Kyrgyzstan, improve the effectiveness of conservation management, and support sustainable development for communities living near natural areas.
“This project reflects trust and a shared commitment to systemic solutions. We are pleased to continue working with the Ministry on the practical implementation of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan to 2040 and on maintaining ecological connectivity across Central and Eastern Kyrgyzstan, linking protected areas, key biodiversity areas, and ecological corridors,” said Alexandra Solovieva, UNDP Resident Representative in the Kyrgyz Republic.
Alexandra Solovieva, UNDP Resident Representative in the Kyrgyz Republic
The project will cover key landscapes in Central and Eastern Kyrgyzstan and will focus on four core areas:
strengthening policy and conservation governance, including support to the National Biodiversity Strategy to 2040;
development of protected areas and ecological corridors, with improved management across more than 328,000 hectares;
support to local communities through alternative livelihoods, sustainable livestock management, and ecotourism;
awareness and participation, including promotion of biodiversity values, particularly among youth and women.
The project also plans to restore 5,000 hectares of degraded land and deliver direct benefits from sustainable natural resource use to at least 5,000 people.
Participants noted the importance of implementing the project under the national execution modality, reflecting the country’s readiness to manage conservation investments independently.
Following the workshop, stakeholder comments and recommendations were collected. After finalization, the project document will be submitted to the GEF Secretariat. Subject to approval, the project is expected to start in September 2026.
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