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Uzbekistan Plans to Restore Khiva’s Outer Fortress, Draw Tourists

The walls of Dishan-Kala, the remnants of a 19th century fortress in the Uzbek city of Khiva, have been deteriorating for many years. Now the Uzbek government plans to restore destroyed sections of the walls, remove some nearby buildings that are cluttering the historical structure and turn the site into a major tourist attraction. The goal is to transform Dishan-Kala, the outer fortress, into a landmark similar to Ichan-Kala, the walled inner town at Khiva that is a UNESCO world heritage site and home to multiple cultural sites, exhibition sites and artisan shops. Some 1 million foreign tourists and 3.5 million local people visited Ichan-Kala in 2024, and it is expected to draw 2 million foreigners and nearly 5 million domestic tourists by the end of this year, the Uzbek Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change said in a statement on Tuesday. The new development campaign aims “not only to preserve Dishan-Kala but also to unlock and enhance its full tourism potential,” the ministry said. Uzbekistan’s growing tourism industry depends in large part on its rich historical legacy in places such as Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand, but the development of the industry has sometimes conflicted with concerns about the preservation of ancient sites. Last year, despite UNESCO’s concerns, Uzbekistan pushed ahead with plans for a big tourist complex next to the historical center of Bukhara, a jewel of medieval architecture in Central Asia. In 2021, UNESCO’s world heritage committee referred to development and tourism pressures in Khiva. It also said it regretted the demolition of large areas of Dishan-Kala, noting that it had served as the residential neighborhood for the fortified inner city and that the links between the two parts of ancient Khiva should be strengthened. Built in 1842, the fortress walls of Dishan-Kala are currently in a state of neglect. Some 2,000 meters of its 6,200-meter wall have been destroyed, and another 2,500 meters are in “critical condition,” the ecology ministry said. “For many years, illegal constructions sprang up around the wall, leaving virtually no space for access or movement along its perimeter,” it said. Photos of Dishan-Kala show trash and piles of debris alongside crumbling walls, in contrast with the well-maintained Ichan-Kala area. The plan is to remove 55 residential and other buildings near the Dishan-Kala walls and install parks, landscaping and a pedestrian alley.

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From Classic to Avant-Garde: How “Night at the Museum” in Almaty Bridged Eras

Last Sunday evening marked a notable event in Almaty’s cultural calendar. The A. Kasteyev State Museum of Art opened its doors after hours for the annual “Night at the Museum,” coinciding with International Museum Day on May 18. This day traditionally underscores the importance of museums as spaces of memory, dialogue, and inspiration. This year’s theme, “Tradition and Modernity in a Changing World,” was embodied in a dynamic and multifaceted program that transformed the museum into a vibrant dialogue between different eras and cultural layers. [caption id="attachment_31947" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] @TCA/Andrey Alimov[/caption] Visitors entering the museum in the evening found themselves immersed in an atmosphere where classical art harmoniously coexisted with contemporary interpretations. The space itself took on a new dimension, allowing the audience to engage with art beyond its typical daytime context. The evening’s program catered to a wide audience. In addition to the museum’s permanent collection, which features masterpieces of Kazakh and global art, guests participated in a variety of special events. Themed tours exploring the interplay of tradition and modernity offered deeper insight into the works on display, revealing new dimensions in the creativity of both Kazakhstani and international artists. [caption id="attachment_31955" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] @TCA/Andrey Alimov[/caption] Musical performances added to the ambiance, with live music enhancing the emotional experience and reinforcing the power of artistic expression. A standout feature of the night was a fashion show held in the museum’s central hall, where models showcased traditional Kazakh costumes with hand embroidery and gold accents, reimagined with a modern flair. These designs underscored how elements of cultural heritage continue to inspire and evolve in contemporary settings. The Kasteyev Museum, Kazakhstan’s largest art institution and a key player in Central Asia’s cultural scene, was established in 1976 and named after Abylhan Kasteyev, a pioneering figure in Kazakh visual art. The museum’s collection exceeds 25,000 pieces, spanning ancient decorative and applied arts to works by 20th- and 21st-century masters. It features not only Kazakh artists, but also significant works from Russian, European, and Eastern traditions. Through exhibitions, educational initiatives, and cultural events, the museum plays a central role in preserving and promoting artistic heritage. [caption id="attachment_31953" align="aligncenter" width="960"] @TCA/Andrey Alimov[/caption] “Night at the Museum” has grown into more than just an event, it is a celebration of art that unites generations, perspectives, and creative approaches. For one night, visitors experienced a space where history meets the present, and art became more accessible, resonant, and profound. It is noteworthy that similar events took place across Kazakhstan’s major cities. Official data indicates the country is home to around 300 museums, which collectively receive approximately 6.5 million visitors each year.

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Global Report on Food Crises 2025: Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan Identified as at Risk

For the first time, the 2025 Global Report on Food Crises, produced by the Food Security Information Network, has officially identified parts of Central Asia, particularly Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, as areas of concern for food security. Central Asia in the Spotlight The Food Security Information Network (FSIN) is a technical global platform for the exchange of expertise, knowledge and best practises on food security and nutrition analysis. Published on May 16, its food crises report for this year outlines a convergence of economic instability, persistently high food prices, and climate-related stressors that threaten to deepen food insecurity in the region. “In Central Asia, especially in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, the situation is worrying due to economic difficulties, high food prices, and vulnerability to climate shocks,” the report states. The region’s inclusion in the list of at-risk areas marks a significant development, highlighting the urgency for both international attention and national-level action. External Dependence and Structural Fragility The report emphasizes the region’s heavy reliance on remittances and its ongoing struggle with inflation. Climate-related disruptions, such as droughts and temperature extremes, are already impacting agricultural yields, placing additional strain on the food system. Tajikistan is particularly vulnerable due to a combination of weak infrastructure, a small domestic market, and high poverty levels. While it has not yet been categorized among the 59 countries facing acute food crises, its identification as a potential hotspot signals a growing risk. This is not the first warning. In August 2024, the Eurasian Development Bank projected that Tajikistan’s food security could drop from 56.7% to 53% by 2035. The same forecast anticipated a 15% reduction in grain yields and a 9-11% decline in fruit and vegetable production, largely due to climate change. These projections align with observable trends: rising prices for basic goods, falling agricultural output, water shortages, and escalating logistical challenges driven by global conflicts. Acknowledging the Crisis President Emomali Rahmon addressed the issue directly during a May 17 seminar-meeting in the Danghara district, calling food security a national strategic priority. He warned that 2025 could be the hottest year on record and noted the compounding impact of global warming, inflation, and trade disruptions. Among the remedies proposed were the more efficient use of land, adoption of energy-saving technologies and agricultural innovations, investment in scientific research, and expanded replanting initiatives. The president also highlighted systemic issues in the sector, including declining meat and egg production, non-operational irrigation systems, and inadequate planting of vegetables and potatoes. The Road Ahead Tajikistan’s inclusion in the Global Report on Food Crises 2025 underscores the need for swift, coordinated efforts to strengthen food system resilience. Key priorities include addressing structural deficiencies in agriculture, adapting to climate change, and fostering regional and international cooperation.

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Maternal Mortality Continues to Decline in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan has ranked among the top 10 countries globally in terms of reducing maternal mortality rates, according to the World Health Organization. Over the past decade, Kazakhstan's maternal mortality rate has dropped significantly, reaching 10.1 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2024. This progress comes despite a temporary spike in maternal deaths during the COVID-19 pandemic. Three regions -- Pavlodar (northeast), Mangistau (west), and North Kazakhstan -- reported zero maternal deaths in 2024. Additionally, 99.9% of births across the country were attended by qualified medical personnel, reflecting widespread access to professional maternal healthcare. Steady Progress with Regional Disparities The Ministry of Health reported the following annual maternal mortality figures: 2020: 200 cases 2021: 70 cases 2022: 45 cases 2024: 37 cases Despite the national downward trend, 10 regions have seen a slight rise in maternal deaths over the past six years. In 2024, 54% of maternal deaths occurred in urban areas, with 46% in rural settings. A troubling development is the rise in mortality among women with four or more children, which left 97 children orphaned last year. Nonetheless, the current maternal mortality rate is the lowest recorded in Kazakhstan's post-Soviet history. In 1992, the rate stood at 76.8 deaths per 100,000 live births. Regional Leadership in Maternal Health As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, Kazakhstan is actively sharing its expertise in maternal and child health with neighboring countries, contributing to broader regional health development efforts.

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Turkmenistan Participates in World Education Forum in London

On May 18, the Education World Forum, one of the largest global events dedicated to education, opened in London, bringing together ministers, deputy ministers, and senior representatives from over 100 countries. This year’s participants include a delegation from Turkmenistan, led by Deputy Minister of Education Azat Ataev. On the forum’s opening day, the Turkmen delegation met with representatives of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to discuss Turkmenistan’s potential involvement in international education initiatives, including the integration of PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) goals into the country’s national education strategy. The delegation also held talks with Times Higher Education (THE), a leading agency in global university rankings. Discussions focused on strategies to enhance the international standing of Turkmen universities and explored the organization of online seminars aimed at improving institutional rankings. Turkmenistan and the United Kingdom continue to strengthen their educational partnership. In 2023, British experts conducted a series of training sessions for Turkmen teachers focused on modern pedagogical practices, organized in cooperation with the British Embassy in Ashgabat. A cornerstone of this collaboration is the Chevening Scholarship Program, which supports Turkmen students pursuing graduate studies in the UK. For the 2024/25 academic year, 12 Turkmen citizens were awarded Chevening scholarships. The British Council is also actively engaged in education development projects in Turkmenistan. Through its Digital Learning program, the Council is working to advance the digitization of the national education system and expand access to modern learning tools.

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Turkmenistan’s Arkadag Footballers Left Without Prize Money Despite AFC Victory

The recent triumph of Turkmenistan’s Arkadag football club in the AFC Challenge League, one of Asia’s most prestigious club competitions, has stirred controversy beyond the pitch. While the victory was widely celebrated, players were left without significant financial rewards, as over $1 million in prize money was donated to charity, prompting mixed reactions among fans and observers. The team was honored with a hero’s welcome in the newly constructed city of Arkadag, complete with fireworks and a celebratory parade. However, expectations of substantial bonuses went unmet. Each player received a symbolic $1,000 from President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, a modest sum compared to their tournament earnings. The total prize purse for winning the competition and reaching the final reportedly exceeded $1.5 million. According to official statements, the athletes themselves requested that the funds be donated to the Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov Charitable Foundation for Children. Despite their international success, the players reportedly earn official salaries of no more than $120 per month. Turkmen football remains largely cut off from global sporting networks, with few foreign players, limited match broadcasts, and minimal competitive depth in domestic leagues. Arkadag’s main rivals frequently field incomplete squads, diminishing the overall level of competition. Sports analysts and development experts warn that the lack of meaningful financial incentives could erode player morale and hinder the growth of football in Turkmenistan. They argue that while charitable contributions are commendable, sustained investment in athletes is essential to build a competitive and inspiring national sports culture.