DUSHANBE, August 22, 2012, – Staff from executing agencies and project implementation units dealing with projects funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in Tajikistan joined a Procurement Clinic organized by ADB last week in Dushanbe, press release issued by the ADB Tajikistan Resident Mission (TJRM) said.

Senior Procurement Specialist Yo Ikeda from ADB’s headquarters in Manila, Philippines conducted the clinic.

“The clinic aimed to enhance knowledge and effectiveness of project staff in project management,” said Asel Chyngysheva, Officer-in-Charge of ADB’s Tajikistan Resident Mission.  “Each executing agency and project implementation unit got a chance to consult with Mr. Ikeda on procurement and consulting issues they encounter during implementation of their respective projects.”

ADB’s active portfolio in Tajikistan consists of 13 loan and grant projects totaling over $470 million, and concentrates in transport, energy and agriculture.

Tajikistan joined ADB in 1998, and to date the institution has cumulatively approved a total assistance of over $866 million in concessional loans, grants and technical assistance to the country. ADB’s operations benefit the population by reducing isolation, increasing communication, broadening access to electricity, improving social services, and creating more income-generating opportunities.

ADB, based in Manila, is dedicated to reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth and regional integration.  Established in 1966, it is owned by 67 members – 48 from the region. In 2011, ADB approvals including cofinancing totaled $21.7 billion.