On 26 September 2026, the ninth meeting of the Kafirnigan Basin Council took place in Dushanbe, bringing together representatives of ministries, local authorities and water users.
Participants reviewed progress in implementing Tajikistan’s National Water Strategy and the programme for land reclamation and irrigation development. Achievements included improvements to the legal framework, water monitoring and accounting, rehabilitation of irrigation infrastructure, and the introduction of water-saving technologies. At the same time, key challenges remain, including ageing irrigation systems, limited funding for repair and rehabilitation works, and the need to strengthen professional capacities.
A key focus of the meeting was the draft Basin Plan for Water Resources Management in the Kafirnigan River Basin. Participants shared recommendations to improve the document and agreed on the next steps for its further development. The Council’s Rules of Procedure and Work Plan were also approved.
Priorities for future action include improving water monitoring and accounting, developing water infrastructure, applying Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) principles, strengthening basin organisations, and mobilising investment and technical assistance.
The role of women in water resources management was also highlighted. Participants stressed the importance of better integrating gender considerations into basin management and expanding women’s participation in decision-making processes.
Another important outcome was the renewal of the Kafirnigan Basin Council’s membership, with representatives of local authorities from 11 cities and districts along the river. This will help strengthen the representation of local authorities and other stakeholders and support more inclusive cooperation towards sustainable water resources management across the basin.
