LocationsUNDP Uzbekistan Wins International Procura+ Award for Global Initiative of the Year
October 9, 2025
Middelburg (the Netherlands) October 8, 2025 — UNDP Uzbekistan has been announced as the winner of the prestigious Procura+ Award in the “Global Initiative of the Year” category, recognizing excellence in sustainable and innovative public procurement organized by ICLEI European Secretariat. Competing alongside strong finalists from Brazil (Ministry of Management & Innovation in Public Services) and New Zealand (Auckland City Council), UNDP Uzbekistan took home the top honor in the “Global Initiative of the Year” category.
This category extends beyond Europe to highlight the world’s most outstanding public procurement practices that contribute to strategic, sustainable, circular, and innovative solutions.
UNDP Uzbekistan’s winning initiative, “The Path to Water Through Life, No One Left Behind”, implemented in the Aral Sea region by UNDP Uzbekistan, was recognized for its remarkable impact on improving access to clean water through sustainable procurement.
In the remote community of Pashenttau, Chimboy district, residents had relied on salty well water for over four decades. Women and children often walked four kilometers daily to fetch water. Thanks to the project, clean and safe drinking water has now become a reality for the community.
“When care for people, climate, and the future meets professional expertise – life-changing projects are born,” said Alisher Utemisov, UNDP Aral Programme Manager.
This achievement was made possible with financial support from the donors, Aral Sea Project team, Procurement Unit of UNDP Uzbekistan CO, implementing the application of sustainable procurement principles, combining care for people, the environment, and future generations.
“This achievement demonstrates how strategic and sustainable procurement practices can directly translate into tangible community benefits, reinforcing UNDP’s commitment to people-centered and environmentally responsible sourcing.” – Sukhrob Mukhsinov, Head of Procurement Unit, UNDP Uzbekistan Country Office.
The award highlights UNDP Uzbekistan’s growing leadership in advancing sustainability and innovation through public procurement, setting an inspiring example for countries worldwide.
