In the picturesque region of Samtskhe-Javakheti, known as the granary of Georgia, where the hills meet ancient cultural traditions of breadmaking and other wheat products, transformative initiative was offered to project beneficiaries. This initiative aimed to address the economic challenges faced by vulnerable rural communities and to enhance the region’s unique agricultural heritage through value chain development.
Despite the diversity and richness of cultural heritage, the region has struggled with economic disparities and limited access to modern agricultural practices. Recognizing the untapped potential of heritage wheat, the importance of value chain development tailored to the needs of vulnerable rural societies was discussed with the project beneficiaries . Why do beneficiaries care for the Meskhetian wheat varieties, what is the purpose of the reintroduction of the distinct flavor and sense of those wheats, how they can develop economically, and what they can produce from the grain – those were the questions asked and answered.
The value of the indigenous wheat variety, “Tsiteli Doli”, is high. It was challenging to convince farmers to cultivate, but some pioneers took steps forward to reintroduce the wheat and they are looking at it as a newborn baby. Caring for food security, protecting agricultural biodiversity, and sustaining the traditional strip to the historical past.
A production value chain refers to the entire process of bringing a product from its initial stage to the final consumer. For Meskhetian wheat, this includes several critical steps, such as seed selection and planting, its cultivation, harvesting and processing, and later its distribution to retailers or directly to consumers.
The workshop not only empowered farmers with practical skills but also reinforced the cultural and economic significance of Meskhetian wheat varieties. As part of the broader initiative supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), efforts continue to promote sustainable agricultural practices and preserve the biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region.
Reflecting on the workshop, Ms. Tamar Ivaidze from the village Tchobareti of Aspindza municipality remarked: “This is the bread our ancestors cared for, preparing the dough and baking together, it was like a long ritual.”
Ms. Tinatin Chilingarashvili added: “The training was timely and extremely beneficial. It has equipped us with the necessary skills to improve our bread production using traditional methods, ensuring that the legacy of Meskhetian wheat continues to thrive.”
More than 25 farmers attended the workshop, eager to enhance their skills and apply the knowledge gained. Led by Lali Meskhi, Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Association of Georgian Wheat, the “Bread Class” highlighted the cultural significance of Meskhetian bread. Participants engaged in hands-on activities, from preparing dough balls to baking in the traditional oven, experiencing firsthand the meticulous process involved in creating these cherished bread varieties. The workshop was one of the cooperation advantages for beneficiary farmers.
The workshop concluded with a celebration of Meskhetian cuisine, featuring a tasting session of various traditional bread varieties. Held in the picturesque village of Ghreli in the Akhaltsikhe municipality, the event was hosted by farmers Tinatin Chilingarashvili and Zaza Ivanidze. They shared their expertise in bread-making using the traditional Meskhetian oven, known as Purne.
Looking ahead, the project aims to raise awareness about the region’s diverse wheat varieties, fostering recognition and appreciation both locally and internationally. By revitalizing traditional practices and integrating them into modern value chains, there is a promising path toward economic development and prosperity for the region and its farming communities.