From 19 to 21 February 2026, a three-day event entitled “Awareness on State Support Programmes in the Agricultural Sector” was held within the framework of the “Socio-Economic Integration of Refugees in Armenia” (SEIRA) Project.

In her opening remarks, the Deputy Minister of Economy of the Republic of Armenia, Ms. Tatevik Sargsyan, underscored the importance of ensuring the effective implementation of state support instruments in the agricultural sector, enhancing productivity, and promoting the adoption of modern technologies. She highlighted that strengthening the competitiveness of agriculture, improving resource efficiency, and fostering sustainable sector development – including the economic integration of vulnerable groups – remain key priorities of the Government’s policy agenda.

The primary objective of the three-day event was to enhance the awareness and capacity of beneficiaries, sector stakeholders, and representatives of community agriculture departments regarding existing state support programmes, contemporary approaches in livestock farming and beekeeping, and practical mechanisms for addressing sector-specific challenges. The event further aimed to promote the effective implementation of public support measures at the local level and to strengthen coordinated engagement with beneficiaries.

The first day featured sessions on modern livestock management technologies, with particular emphasis on practical pathways for transitioning from extensive to more intensive production systems. Discussions also addressed the impact of climate change on the agricultural sector and outlined mitigation and adaptation measures.

On the second day, participants examined the use of antibiotics in livestock production and the measures required to combat antimicrobial resistance. The discussions emphasized responsible use practices and preventive approaches essential for safeguarding both animal and public health.

Special attention was also given to beekeeping. Participants received detailed insights into varroatosis in bees, including its characteristics and effective prevention and control measures, particularly in relation to the pre- and post-winter management of bee colonies.

During the closing session, participants shared key observations and reaffirmed the importance of continued awareness-raising initiatives to enhance the accessibility, effectiveness, and impact of state support programmes in the agricultural sector.

The “Socio-Economic Integration of Refugees in Armenia” (SEIRA) project is funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and implemented by the Strategic Development Agency NGO and the UN World Food Programme.

Within the framework of the “Innovative Livestock Management: Animal Migration, Breeding & Markets” (INLIMA) project, a series of structured professional working meetings were convened in the communities of Artashat, Vedi, and Ararat in Ararat region. The meetings brought together key actors across the livestock value chain to foster coordinated dialogue and sector-wide alignment.

Participants included:

• representatives of milk and meat processing companies,
• managers and technical specialists from slaughterhouses,
• veterinarians,
• livestock farmers.

The discussions centered on improving herd management practices and enhancing genetic potential, introducing modern approaches to production organization, strengthening quality assurance systems, and aligning livestock production with evolving market requirements. Particular emphasis was placed on reinforcing functional linkages among value chain actors in order to mitigate risks, improve traceability and standards compliance, and increase overall sector performance.

The professional exchange enabled stakeholders not only to articulate existing challenges but also to define coordinated action priorities aimed at increasing productivity, optimizing operational costs, and enhancing the competitiveness of locally produced livestock products.

Through this multi-stakeholder engagement model, the INLIMA project advances evidence-based, partnership-driven solutions that support systemic improvements in the livestock sector and contribute to its sustainable and market-oriented development.

“Innovative Livestock Management: Animal Migration, Breeding & Markets” (INLIMA) project is implemented by Strategic Development Agency NGO and funded by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), the operational unit of Austrian Development Cooperation.