When we first heard about the MEDA trip to Tajikistan it was very interesting. Of course it was an intriguing tourist destination, but the MEDA connection gave the trip a twist. We have an interest in land and farming, and visiting Tajikistan with its history of transitioning from a communist-controlled economy to a market economy was fascinating.
The trip was full of adventure. The Silk Road to Tajikistan included a mountain pass that was barely a road. They knew beforehand that a bus would not be able to make it so we went in cars. Unfortunately, our Russian-made car broke down. We coasted down the mountain for 3 or 4 miles until the car finally drifted to a stop.
We tried starting it again but it simply would not go. It was a 4-cylinder and we tested the spark and finally determined it was a coil. The driver quickly got out the tools from his trunk including a spare coil – he had come to expect the breakdowns. He promptly replaced the coil and we were back on the road.
We did feel a little guilty bringing 7 or 8 vehicles over the mountain pass but Ed told us this was their interstate and not to worry. The whole drive felt a little like bumper cars at a carnival or a NASCAR race – especially with our driver. He was from a Russian background and wanted to get to the front of the line. We passed other cars in the convoy but we still felt safe. Even when we reached for our seatbelts, he insisted we didn’t need them. We assumed that it was because they didn’t work!
When we finally arrived in Tajikistan we met the local people, including government officials and handlers provided to us by the tourist agency. At first they appeared stern but eventually they warmed up and would smile for a picture and even put their arm around our shoulder to be in the pictures too.
Seeing MEDA’s projects in Tajikistan was a real highlight. The MEDA staff in Tajikistan demonstrated their fruit production plant, specifically featuring the dried apricot project. One of the traditional ways of drying them was on the ground where produce was handled by people creating a very dirty and unappealing product.
With MEDA’s help, they now have access to new technology. We visited a farmer who had constructed at least 3 types of solar drying systems. He was so excited. He was even reaching out to neighbors to demonstrate his technology. It took 2 days for apricots to dry on his new machine, what took 6 days using the traditional method. The new technology resulted in a cleaner product in one-third the time.
Another MEDA client we met was a farmer who received a micro loan of $3000. He ended up getting 42 hectares of land and planted almond trees and fruit trees. With MEDA’s help he was earning yields multiple times over because of new innovations. We had a noon meal at his place where he raised chickens. He was so pleased to be able to show us what he was doing. He was so proud. Everyone we met was so excited to show us their projects. It was encouraging to see their kindness, warmth and determination.
The trip was unforgettable. We knew MEDA impacted lives – but this was a personal glimpse to something much bigger than we ever imagined. They are creating entrepreneurs using proven business principles.
Barbara and George Smucker live in Goshen, Indiana. They are long time supporters of MEDA and active members of the Michiana MEDA chapter.
