In a unique initiative, Uzbekistan is involving community elders as mentors to support poor families. This program, outlined in a decree by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, seeks to reduce poverty and enhance living conditions for disadvantaged populations.
Empowering Through Mentorship
Under the “From Poverty to Prosperity” program, elders will mentor families in agricultural practices, promoting self-sufficiency through farming. The initiative also assists families in renting mobile stores and obtaining equipment to start small businesses.
In addition to economic support, the program encourages healthy living. Mentors will educate families about balanced diets, physical activity, and disease prevention. Elders will also engage citizens in community service and address child-rearing issues within impoverished households.
This approach combines the efforts of the state, society, and active citizens, creating a unique model of community-driven poverty alleviation in Uzbekistan.
Comprehensive Anti-Poverty Measures
The “From Poverty to Prosperity” program aims to lift 500,000 people out of poverty by the end of 2024 and an additional 1 million in 2025. In September 2024, Mirziyoyev approved initiatives focused on entrepreneurship, vocational training, and infrastructure development in low-income areas.
In 2025, $1.6 billion will be allocated to infrastructure projects, including installing water pumps and solar panels in 300 underdeveloped neighborhoods. These measures aim to unlock the potential of citizens while encouraging personal responsibility for wellbeing.
