Greenhouse farming in Kyzylorda faces several challenges that hinder its development, despite the region's strong focus on agriculture and industry. According to the regional Department of Agriculture and Land Relations, there are only 21 operational greenhouses in Kyzylorda, covering a total area of 12.1 hectares.
Local farmers have access to natural gas, which has lowered production costs. However, Omarkhan Pashkenov, head of the regional branch of the Farmers' Union of Kazakhstan, stresses that greenhouse farming requires precision and responsibility. Any misstep can lead to significant losses.
Another major issue is the lack of agronomists specialized in greenhouse farming. Akerke Kenesbaikyzy, a senior lecturer at Bolashak University, notes that qualified experts are essential for developing the sector. She has demonstrated that Kyzylorda's greenhouses can grow tomatoes, cucumbers, strawberries, lemons, and even bananas. However, she emphasizes that transitioning field agronomists to greenhouse farming can be challenging due to the specialized knowledge required.
State programs like "Aul Amanaty" and "Bastau Business" offer loans and grants to support greenhouse development. Despite this, most applications focus on livestock farming. As a result, Kyzylorda imports fruits and vegetables during the winter and early spring, increasing reliance on foreign produce.
According to Mahanbet Turmakhanov, director of the regional branch of the Agrarian Credit Corporation, local entrepreneurs often hesitate to invest in greenhouses due to the region's climate and soil quality. He highlights the corporation's readiness to finance agricultural diversification, including greenhouse projects, to address these challenges.
Better infrastructure, expert training, and proactive use of state programs are necessary for greenhouse farming in Kyzylorda to thrive.
Source: www.inform.kz