The Audit Chamber identified issues in the implementation of the grant project "Development of Women's Entrepreneurship"
The audit results showed that, overall, the system for managing external assistance operates in accordance with established objectives: the ministry registers, coordinates, and monitors projects, conducts training events, and interacts with government agencies.
However, significant problems were identified when the ministry acts not only as a coordinator but also as the direct executor of projects.
A striking example is the "Women's Entrepreneurship Development" project, funded in the amount of $508.39 thousand:
1. Delays in implementation: The project has been prolonged for more than 5 years. Although funds have been available since 2019, agreements with banks were only reached in May 2025.
2. Insufficient project competence: The ministry acknowledged a lack of qualified specialists for implementing the credit component, which led to attempts to transfer authority to another agency, contradicting the conditions set by the donor.
3. Limited engagement with financial institutions: Most financial and credit organizations refused to participate due to unfavorable conditions. Adaptation of the project conditions only began in 2023-2024, leading to significant delays.
Thus, the project was effectively launched only in 2025, indicating the ministry's insufficient readiness for the operational and institutional execution of financial projects.
4. Reputational risks: Long-term non-utilization of funds from the ADB and the Japanese Fund may negatively affect donor trust and pose a threat to further cooperation.
5. Limited coverage: Even after the launch, the project only covers certain regions, excluding Bishkek and Osh, which hinders its impact on the development of women's entrepreneurship in the country.
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