Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 24, The Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) has signed an agreement with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to support wheat-flour fortification in Tajikistan. The signing ceremony was conducted by Ruslan Dalenov, Deputy Chairman of the EDB Management Board, and Adham Mussallam, WFP Country Director in Tajikistan.

The grant-funded initiative aims to reduce micronutrient deficiencies by expanding the production and consumption of fortified wheat flour nationwide. Under the programme, local milling enterprises will receive modern premix dispensers and laboratory testing equipment. Technical staff at these facilities will also complete specialised training to ensure consistent quality and compliance with fortification standards.

Ruslan Dalenov stated that strengthening food security and public health through such targeted projects remains a core priority for the EDB. He highlighted that cooperation with the WFP and Tajik authorities will help bring national flour-fortification practices in line with recognised international guidelines.

The project builds on extensive consultations held throughout 2025 involving Tajikistan’s Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the Tajikstandard Agency, and the WFP. It represents the second collaborative effort between the EDB and the WFP.

The Eurasian Development Bank operates as a multilateral institution across the Eurasian region. As of July 2025, its active investment portfolio comprised 319 projects valued at $19.1 billion, covering sectors that include transport infrastructure, digital development, renewable energy, agriculture, industry, and engineering.

By equipping mills with appropriate technology and building local capacity, the initiative is expected to improve the nutritional content of a staple food consumed widely in Tajikistan, contributing to long-term public health benefits and more efficient food-processing practices.