The Steppe Blooms in the Hands of a Woman – British Publisher Focuses on Jizzakh

Maria Shevel (Akhmedjanova) on the cover of the OCA Magazine Jizzakh Edition; image: OCA Magazine

Jizzakh, a region which is historically significant yet little known outside the borders of Uzbekistan, is now stepping into the international spotlight with a special issue of OCA Magazine launched in London. This edition, OCA Magazine: Jizzakh, weaves together a tapestry of narratives from writers spanning continents from Uzbekistan and the United Kingdom and the United States, France, India, Bulgaria, and Finland. These contributors dive deep into the heritage, history, economics, culture, and cuisine of Jizzakh, painting a vibrant picture of a region with a rich strategic importance and cultural legacy.

Renowned as the birthplace of Uzbekistan’s leaders Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Sharaf Rashidov, Jizzakh holds a special place in the nation’s heart. It is also home to an array of notable figures who have made substantial contributions to regional and national development, ranging from the founders of dynasties to contemporary athletes and scientists. This special issue seeks to illuminate these stories, with feature articles such as one on Maria Shevel (Akhmedjanova), a winner of the Heroine of Labor award whose architectural influence has shaped the visage of Jizzakh, and the iconic sanatorium in the Zaamin National Reserve.

As Uzbekistan continues its rapid development under President Mirziyoyev, global curiosity about this vibrant country continues to grow. The magazine not only looks into the region’s history, but looks ahead, exploring Jizzakh’s potential as an economic powerhouse. Articles discuss such projects as nuclear energy development and advancements in education, showcasing Jizzakh as a region poised for growth.

Stephen M. Bland

Stephen M. Bland

Stephen M. Bland is a journalist, author, editor, commentator and researcher specialising in Central Asia and the Caucasus. Prior to joining The Times of Central Asia, he has worked for NGOs, think tanks, as the Central Asia expert on a forthcoming documentary series, for the BBC, The Diplomat, EurasiaNet, and numerous other publications.

Published in 2016, his book on Central Asia was the winner of the Golden Laureate of Eurasian Literature. He is currently putting the finishing touches to a book about the Caucasus.

www.stephenmbland.com

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