UN warns of dual nutrition crisis, water stress in Tajikistan
Childhood obesity rises sharply as chronic malnutrition and climate pressures persist.
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan (MNTV) — Tajikistan is grappling with a growing public health crisis as it faces a dual burden of malnutrition and obesity among children, compounded by water insecurity and climate vulnerability, according to a new United Nations report.
The Food Security and Nutrition Outlook for Europe and Central Asia 2024 outlines urgent challenges confronting Tajikistan’s food system, including undernutrition, rising obesity rates, gender inequality in agriculture, and the increasing threat of climate change.
The findings were reported by The Times of Central Asia.
The report reveals that in 2022, nearly 13.1% of Tajik children under five suffered from stunting caused by chronic malnutrition, while 9.9% experienced wasting—well above the global target of 3%. In contrast, childhood obesity surged dramatically, with the proportion of overweight children jumping from 4.6% in 2000 to 21% in 2022.
Agriculture, which remains central to Tajikistan’s economy and food supply, is increasingly vulnerable to erratic weather patterns and water shortages.
Despite ongoing reforms—including the adoption of a new Water Code in 2020 and a watershed management system expected by 2026—water scarcity remains a critical concern.
Water user associations have emerged as key players in driving local-level change, yet systemic challenges persist.
The report also underscores persistent gender disparities in agriculture.
Although women make up a substantial portion of the sector’s workforce, many are employed informally without wages or legal protections.
The UN urges Tajikistan to improve women’s access to land, financial resources, and participation in agricultural decision-making.
Beyond Tajikistan, food insecurity remains a regional issue. In 2023, 107 million people across Europe and Central Asia—roughly 11.5% of the population—faced moderate or severe food insecurity.
Among them, 24.5 million were in acute need.
Central Asia alone accounts for 2.3 million people, or about 3% of the population, who do not meet minimum daily energy intake requirements.
While regional progress has been made in reducing child malnutrition and anemia among women, the rise in adult obesity remains alarming, now surpassing 20%.
Some 7.1% of children under five are overweight, and 64.3 million people—6.9% of the region’s population—still cannot afford a healthy diet.
The UN highlights water as a linchpin for regional food security.
Rising consumption of meat and dairy is accelerating water demand, while outdated irrigation systems, pollution, data shortages, and limited regional cooperation hinder progress.
The report calls for targeted investments in water-saving technologies, sustainable reuse strategies, and reduced agricultural water footprints.
Developed in collaboration with seven UN agencies—including FAO, UNICEF, WHO, UNDP, and WMO—the report urges a comprehensive approach to tackling Tajikistan’s food and water challenges.
Linking climate adaptation, nutrition, gender equality, and modern water governance will be essential for long-term sustainability, the UN concludes.
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