Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has established two seedling greenhouses and a germination room in the Danniyeh region of northern Lebanon, enhancing the area’s seedling production capacity.
Through this initiative, TİKA has enabled farmers to source seedlings locally, making them both more cost-effective and reliable.
The project not only supports efforts to reduce poverty in rural areas but also drives the region’s economic development. It promotes the active participation of women in agricultural production while creating opportunities to experiment with new plant species suited to the local environment.
By improving agricultural sustainability in Danniyeh, the project strengthens the regional economy and enhances the quality of life for rural communities.
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has replaced the carpets of the Shah Zafar Dargah and Tomb, which houses the tombs of Bahadur Shah Zafar, the 19th and final Mughal ruler, and his wife.
TİKA replaced the carpets of the Shah Zafar Dargah and Tomb, which houses the tomb of Bahadur Shah Zafar, the 19th and last Mughal ruler, and his wife—both significant figures in Turkish history.
The opening ceremony for the project, undertaken by TİKA, was attended by Neval Orbay, the Türkiye’s Ambassador to Naypyidaw, along with TİKA officials and members of the local community.
Bahadur Shah Zafar, who passed away in Yangon in 1862 while imprisoned by the British, is recognized as a significant figure in Turkish history. The dargah housing his tomb attracts thousands of visitors annually and serves as an important center for the Sufi tradition.
With support from Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), medical equipment and furniture were provided to the health center serving the Bujan Administrative Unit in Tropoja Municipality, northern Albania. Additionally, a heating system was installed in the facility.
An opening ceremony was held to celebrate the completion of the project, attended by Tropoja Deputy Governor, Altin Berbati; Head of the Bujan Administrative Unit, Sherif Vatoci; TİKA Balkans and Eastern Europe Department Head, Muhammed Ünal; TİKA’s Coordinator in Tirana, Mustafa Ata; managers from Tropoja’s Local Health Services Unit and health center staff.
Speaking at the event, Deputy Governor Berbati expressed his gratitude for the project implemented by TİKA, extending his gratitude to Türkiye on behalf of the approximately 4,000 residents of the region.
“Over 600 projects implemented”
Ünal, Head of TİKA’s Balkans and Eastern Europe Department stated that since 1996, TİKA has carried out over 600 projects and activities in Albania across various sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, and production.
Ünal expressed satisfaction with enhancing citizens’ access to quality healthcare services through this project, implemented in collaboration with the Albanian Ministry of Health. He emphasized that TİKA remains committed to supporting development initiatives across Albania.
Serving six villages and 4,000 people
The health center, which serves approximately 4,000 people across six villages under the Bujan Administrative Unit, relocated from its old building, in use since 1960, to the ground floor of the Bujan Administrative Unit building. The center is staffed by one doctor, 17 nurses, and one administrative employee.
With support from TİKA, the health center’s physical infrastructure was upgraded, and it now has a modern appearance with new medical equipment, furniture, and a heating system.
The book “The Calligraphy Heritage of the Timurs,” published by Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), was unveiled during a program held in Herat, Afghanistan’s cultural capital. The book explores the art of calligraphy that flourished during the Timurid period.
The introductory program was attended by Sinan İlhan, Consul General of the Republic of Türkiye in Herat; Ahmet Tukur, Afghanistan Representative of the Turkish Maarif Foundation; Hamidullah Kamgar, author of “The Calligraphy Heritage of the Timurs”; Ferid Ahmed Eyubi, Deputy Director of Herat Provincial Culture and Information; Abdulcelil Tevana, President of the Herat Calligraphers Association; Aziz Niyazi, Vice President of Herat University; Refik Şehir, Head of the Herat Experts Council; Muhammed Davud Munir, President of the Herat Writers Association; Arafat Deniz, TİKA’s Coordinator in Herat; Ahmet Duran, Director of the Afghan-Turk Maarif Schools of the Herat Maarif Foundation; and many academics.
Speakers from Ireland and the United States also contributed to the program through video messages.
TİKA’s Coordinator in Herat, Deniz, delivering the program’s opening speech, highlighted TİKA’s extensive contributions to culture and art in Herat. He noted that the book “The Calligraphy Heritage of the Timurs” is the 10th publication by Afghanistan’s prominent researcher and author Hamidullah Kamgar.
Deniz emphasized that the book serves as an important scholarly resource on the art of calligraphy, offering a valuable foundation for preserving the craft and passing it on to future generations.
Information on the Nastaliq Script
Abdulcelil Tevana, President of the Herat Calligraphers Association, noted that Mir Ali Heravi, the creator of the Nastaliq script, was born and raised in Herat. He added that the book provides detailed information about Hirevi’s works and biography.
Calligrapher Nik Mohammad Mastamand Gori highlighted the book’s significant contributions to previous studies on the art of calligraphy that flourished during the Timurid period, emphasizing its irreplaceable value in the field.
Gratitude and reflections from Kamgar, the author of the book
Kamgar, the author of the book, reflected on the challenges he faced while preparing the work and detailed the research he conducted to gather manuscripts and examples of calligraphy. He expressed gratitude to the many friends, both in Afghanistan and abroad, who supported him throughout the process and thanked TİKA for their contributions to the book’s publication.
Kamgar explained that the Nastaliq script developed during the Timurid period but expressed concern over UNESCO’s recognition of it solely as part of Iran’s cultural heritage. He stressed the importance of raising awareness about Afghanistan’s cultural heritage and emphasized that this book aims to contribute to that effort.
The book “The Calligraphy Heritage of the Timurs” offers in-depth information on calligraphy during the Timurid era, making a significant contribution to the world of art and culture.
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has successfully renovated the art studio at Viktorovac Primary School in Sisak, Croatia. As the second-largest educational institution in the region, with 476 students, the school now has an improved facility for artistic activities, thanks to a project implemented by TİKA.
To nurture the artistic talents of students at Viktorovac Primary School, founded in 1952, a student cooperative named “VikSi” (Viktorovac Sisak) was established. Despite operating with minimal resources, the cooperative showcased its excellence by securing first place in a nationwide art competition in Croatia last year.
Growing needs following the 2020 earthquake
The 2020 earthquake significantly increased the challenges faced by Viktorovac Primary School. The growing number of students, including those from neighboring provinces, created difficulties in addressing both social and academic needs. This situation underscored the urgency of enhancing the physical and technical infrastructure of the school’s workshop, which serves as a hub for artistic activities.
Art workshop renovated
As part of a project supported by TİKA, the art workshop at Viktorovac Primary School was fully renovated. The workshop was also equipped with essential tools and materials, including a ceramic kiln, potter’s wheel, clay plate machine, wood carving sets, and various stationery supplies. Through its initiatives in education and social development, TİKA continues to contribute to the progress of the region.
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) distributed food packages to Najashi village in Ethiopia’s Tigray province, a location renowned as the first home of Muslim migrants and a site of profound historical and cultural significance.
The Najashi Tomb, Mosque, and the graves of 15 Companions in the village represent the rich religious and cultural heritage of the region and hold an esteemed place in Islamic history.
The conflicts in the region between 2020 and 2022 severely impacted the livelihoods of the villagers. Although two years have passed since the end of these conflicts, progress in production, employment, and economic development remains insufficient.
To address the villagers’ basic needs and alleviate their financial difficulties, TİKA delivered 350 food packages tailored to local conditions and dietary preferences.
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has established three water filtration stations in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province as part of its Access to Clean Drinking Water Program.
In a region where access to clean drinking water remains a critical issue, TİKA set up two solar submersible water pumps in Peshawar and one water filtration station in Karak, ensuring that residents of the area can access safe and clean drinking water.
According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report, Pakistan has the lowest water availability among 26 countries in Asia and is projected to face severe water scarcity by 2035. Additionally, the WHO estimates that 25–30% of hospital admissions in Pakistan are attributed to diseases caused by the consumption of contaminated or bacteria-laden water. This issue is particularly fatal for infants, while a significant portion of the population in regions lacking access to clean water is compelled to rely on unhygienic water sources.
Through the project implemented by TİKA, approximately 25,000 residents of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province have gained improved access to safe drinking water. The solar submersible water pumps address the region’s electricity shortages while providing a sustainable, environmentally friendly energy solution. Meanwhile, the water filter stations ensure that water is purified of contaminants and meets drinking water standards. The developed infrastructure was handed over to the Alkhidmat Foundation and made available for the benefit of the local population.
The ”CezeriFest 3D Design and Printing Competition” brought together young talents trained in “Cezeri Lab” and ”Cezeri Studio” projects launched by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) in 22 different countries.
TİKA’s inaugural CezeriFest, themed “Design for Education,” took place in Ankara from December 9 to 12.
A 3D Design and Printing Competition was held during the festival, showcasing 54 projects presented by participants from Bangladesh, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Tanzania, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), and Ukraine. Competitors developed innovative and educationally beneficial projects using three-dimensional printers.
The projects were evaluated by a panel of five jury members. The first prize was awarded to “TRNC-Team Techno Eul,” the second prize to “Ukraine Team L&A”, and the third prize to “Pakistan Team CTTI Islamabad”.
The Pakistani team designed a car suspension and differential model using a 3D printer, while the Ukrainian team developed a model illustrating the three-dimensional visualization of electric current. The TRNC team created experimental setups, including pendulums, to support science education at the primary, secondary, and high school levels.
“Bringing Al-Jazari’s legacy to every corner of the world”
TİKA’s President Serkan Kayalar presented the awards to the competition winners. In his speech, Kayalar stated, “We are proud to have successfully completed the first CezeriFest, which we plan to host annually as a technology competition under various thematic titles.”
Kayalar highlighted that the event, named after the inventor Ismail Al-Jazari—known as the “Father of Robotics”—embodies TİKA’s vision and mission of sharing Türkiye’s scientific and technological expertise with the world. He described Al-Jazari as one of the most remarkable scientists to emerge from the Islamic world.
Kayalar stated, “Through the Cezeri Labs established in nearly 20 countries—from South Africa to Mongolia and from Bosnia and Herzegovina to Bangladesh—and the Cezeri Studios implemented in almost 10 countries, we are spreading Al-Jazari’s name to all corners of the world.”
He added that the devices and laboratory infrastructures developed in Türkiye equip young people with skills in three-dimensional design, modeling, robotics, and mechatronics. Kayalar emphasized that the projects showcased in the 3D Design and 3D Printing Competition, held as part of CezeriFest, represent not only technical achievements but also innovative solutions that promote creative thinking, sustainability, and equal opportunities in education.
Participants engage directly with technology at CezeriFest
As part of the festival, an exhibition showcasing works from the Istanbul Jazari Museum was organized, giving participants a unique opportunity to experience technology firsthand through activities at the “Cezeri 3D Printing Workshop”. The closing program also featured promotional videos highlighting the large-scale technology laboratory, Cezeri Lab, and the more compact Cezeri Studio.
“CezeriFest,” organized by TİKA to strengthen cooperation with friendly nations in the fields of technology and science, will be held annually with a different theme, providing a platform for young people’s innovative projects.”
TİKA’s science and technology initiative: “Cezeri Lab and Studio”
The Cezeri Lab and Cezeri Studio projects, implemented by TİKA under the “Science and Technology Education Program (BİTEP)” to enhance the technological infrastructures of partner countries, focus on fostering scientific and industrial innovation. These initiatives provide young people with significant opportunities in technology through training offered at the large-scale Cezeri Lab and the more compact Cezeri Studio.
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has delivered food packages and tents to support Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict in Southern Gaza.
As a result of Israel’s relentless attacks on Gaza, nearly 50,000 people have lost their lives, over 100,000 have been injured and approximately 2 million Palestinians have been displaced.
The number of aid trucks permitted to enter Gaza and the quantity of aid delivered have been decreasing steadily. For instance, while 117,000 tons of food supplies were allowed into Gaza in May, this amount fell drastically to 35,000 tons by November. Additionally, severe restrictions have been imposed on the entry of essential shelter materials such as tents.
Under these challenging conditions, TİKA provided food packages including dry goods as well as fruits and vegetables to support 1,000 families living in tents in the southern regions of Gaza.
Additionally, 50 tents were produced using the supplied materials and distributed to 50 families in urgent need of shelter.
Previously, TİKA had provided various forms of aid to Gazans, including shelter materials, medical supplies, food packages, blankets, beds, pillows, and winter clothing.
TİKA, which distributed food packages during Ramadan and served hot iftar meals to 2,000 people daily through the TİKA Ramadan Kitchen, remains committed to improving the living conditions of those affected by the ongoing conflict.
In collaboration with Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) and the Hands Giving Lives Association, extensive eye care examinations and practical training for local healthcare personnel were conducted in Porto-Novo, Benin.
The volunteer health team from TİKA and the Hands Giving Lives Association examined 140 patients and performed cataract surgeries on 125 individuals at the Eye Diseases Polyclinic of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Départemental Ouémé à Porto-Novo Hospital.
Over the seven-day initiative, medical procedures were conducted in partnership with local doctors, and knowledge was exchanged to enhance healthcare delivery. Patients’ current conditions were assessed, and guidance was provided on post-treatment care before concluding the health assistance program.
This project aimed to enhance healthcare capacity in Africa, expedite medical services, transfer expertise to local health professionals, introduce new techniques, and foster stronger ties of friendship between nations.
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has established “Black Soldier Fly Production Farms” in Kenya to promote the economic independence of women farmers and encourage environmentally sustainable production.
As part of the project, conducted in partnership with the Mama Doing Good Foundation—under the patronage of Kenyan First Lady Rachel Ruto—and the Nandi County Government, TİKA set up a “Black Soldier Fly Training Farm” at the Kaimosi Education Center. Additionally, it established “Black Soldier Fly Production Farms” for four women’s cooperatives that completed their training in the Eldoret and Uasin Gishu counties.
The project aims to provide women farmers with an environmentally friendly source of income while recycling organic waste and supporting sustainable agricultural practices. Through Black Soldier Fly production, women can feed their chickens and earn income by selling the feed they produce in powdered or larvae form.
Black Soldier Fly production mitigates environmental impact by converting organic waste into valuable products. The high-protein feeds produced by these flies require fewer resources than traditional feeds and reduce environmental pressure.
Comprehensive training and implementation
At the training farm established by TİKA at the Kaimosi Training Center, participants received instruction on the production, care, and utilization of Black Soldier Flies. After completing their training, four women farmer cooperatives began managing their own production farms and started large-scale operations.
The inauguration of the training farm at the Kaimosi Training Center was attended by Nandi Deputy Governor, Yulita Cheruiyot; Mama Doing Good Foundation President, Elizabeth Koskei; and TİKA’s Coordinator in Nairobi, Yasemin Cansuz Kurt.
During the ceremony, Deputy Governor Cheruiyot highlighted the significance of women’s involvement in innovative agricultural practices and announced plans to support at least ten women in receiving training each month. Cheruiyot expressed gratitude to the Turkish people and TİKA for their contributions to the project.
About the Black Soldier Fly
The Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) is an insect species that feeds on agricultural waste, food scraps, and organic material, converting biological waste into a high-protein food source. This sustainable production method provides significant benefits to small-scale farmers, fostering environmental sustainability and economic growth.
Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) established a nursery in Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines, planting 75 local myrtle trees to mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and the Philippines.
The ceremony, held at the Makiling Botanic Gardens, was attended by Türkiye’s Ambassador to Manila, Niyazi Evren Akyol; University of the Philippines Los Baños Vice President, Dr. Marie Amongo; Dean of the College of Forestry and Natural Resources, Prof. Marlo D. Mendoza; TİKA’s Coordinator in Philippines, İbrahim Katırcı; as well as university faculty members and students.
At the event, 75 myrtle saplings were planted to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and the Philippines, symbolizing the partnership between the two nations.
Speaking at the ceremony, Türkiye’s Ambassador to Manila, Akyol highlighted the cultural significance of trees and forests, stating “Planting a tree means planting a seed of hope for a more abundant, prosperous future, and a richer environment.”
Dr. Amongo, Vice President of the University of the Philippines Los Baños, expressed her gratitude to Türkiye for organizing this meaningful event and for its valuable contributions to environmental sustainability. She noted her belief that this collaboration would yield positive outcomes in the future and continue to grow.
TİKA’s Coordinator in Philippines, Katırcı emphasized that the event symbolized the friendship between the two countries and their shared responsibility to protect the environment. He stressed the importance of such environmental initiatives for the well-being of future generations.
