Astana -On 20 November 2024, the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS), in partnership with the Mevlana Development Agency (MEVKA), conducted a productive working visit to the Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Kazakhstan, where they were warmly received by the Turkish Ambassador to Kazakhstan, H.E. Mustafa Kapucu. This visit marks another significant step in deepening the interaction between Kazakhstan and Türkiye in the critical area of food security.
The visit was highlighted by discussions centered on livestock forage production, a crucial sector directly influencing farm animal productivity. MEVKA experts, currently visiting Kazakhstan, are exploring opportunities and sharing best practices for enhancing livestock forage systems in the Aktobe region. Special emphasis was placed on alfalfa production, renowned for its high nutritional value and role as a cornerstone of sustainable animal feed. Alfalfa, often referred to as the "queen of forage crops," holds immense potential for improving livestock health and productivity while contributing to soil fertility through nitrogen fixation.
Discussions also touched upon smart irrigation systems that could significantly enhance the efficiency and sustainability of forage production in Kazakhstan, particularly in water-scarce areas. These technologies align with global best practices and aim to optimize water use while ensuring higher yields. With the global animal feed market projected to reach $500 billion by 2030, Kazakhstan has a unique opportunity to position itself as a regional hub for forage production, leveraging its vast arable land and increasing interest in advanced agricultural technologies.
All sides agreed to enhance cooperation in animal forage production, trade, water and seed management, as well as to strengthen knowledge-sharing initiatives. As part of these efforts, a roadmap was established to organize visits for Kazakh businessmen and agriculture industry officials to Türkiye in 2025. The Konya Agriculture Fair in April 2025 was identified as an excellent platform for showcasing Turkish agricultural expertise. Additionally, a special fair will be organized in Kazakhstan to introduce Turkish-made agricultural machinery, equipment, seeds, and cutting-edge technologies to local farmers.
The initiative’s success in Aktobe is expected to serve as a model, paving the way for scaling up across Kazakhstan and extending to other IOFS member states. This collaborative effort underscores the transformative potential of regional partnerships in addressing global food security challenges while unlocking economic opportunities for farmers and agribusiness stakeholders.
By strengthening Kazakhstan's forage production capabilities, particularly through the introduction of alfalfa-based systems and smart irrigation technologies, this partnership contributes to the nation’s agricultural resilience and establishes a blueprint for sustainable development in the region.
