A Project Activating Southern Issyk-Kul Communities Is Implemented in Ton and Jety-Oguz Districts

published: 04 October 2012

The Association “One Village One Product” (OVOP) is implementing a project designed to activate Southern Issyk-Kul communities in Jety-Oguz and Ton districts. The project is sponsored by Kumtor Operating Company.

During the preliminary seminars conducted last August and September, the beginning entrepreneurs chose fields to translate their business concepts into life. Following the introductory training sessions and consultations, the Ton and Jety-Oguz residents selected jam production. A group of consultants of OVOP and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have taught the residents the essentials of jam production at home and hygiene standards. The training participants have been awarded proper certificates.

A series of business planning seminars were held at the Barskoon-based KOC Regional Information Center. Practical sessions were arranged in a Karakol vocational school where upgraded jam-producing equipment had been purchased with KOC’s financial assistance. Practical seminars were held at Ton and Jety-Oguz.

The OVOP representatives provided consultations for the beginning business people on package designing and market strategies, and continue to assist them with jam sales and distribution channels. The project participants were also allowed to offer their products for sale at the Karakol Research Shop.

The purpose of the joint project is to unite private business and community efforts for the development of the region’s economic potential through production and sales of goods at the affordable price. The project will continue until late March 2013 to cover 20 villages and about 30 communities.

The Association “One Village One Product” (OVOP) was organized in the Issyk-Kul region at the initiative of local producers as part of the OVOP project, which is being implemented by the provincial administration with the support of JICA and KOC. Any community or individual may join OVOP. The OVOP members are engaged in the production of unique goods by using accessible resources.