In the village of Togolok Moldо, located in the high mountainous Ak-Talinsky district of the Naryn region, a farmer named Boto Kuroonkeev is engaged in camel breeding, which has become a rarity in our time. This story was presented to the Ministry of Agriculture of Kyrgyzstan.
As noted by the ministry, this branch of animal husbandry in the country is gradually fading into the past; however, the Kuroonkeev family continues the tradition.
The family legacy of camel breeding began with Boto's father, who started this work back in the 1980s. Today, his son continues this important work. Despite the challenging conditions, camels adapt well to the local climate: they can go without water for up to 40 days and easily endure temperatures from −40 °C to +50 °C. Additionally, these animals provide meat and milk throughout the year, making them extremely valuable for the farm.
Boto is actively working on the development of camel breeding, increasing the number of animals not only in the Naryn region but also in other regions of Kyrgyzstan. His plans include importing mountain breeds of camels from Mongolia to improve the quality of the local population.
According to information from the Ministry of Agriculture, an adult male camel can yield up to 400–500 kg of meat. Moreover, camel wool is in demand: it is used to make clothing, blankets, and products with medicinal properties that are sold in the market.
Boto Kuroonkeev's initiative plays an important role in reviving the nearly forgotten traditions of camel breeding in Kyrgyzstan and in diversifying the local livestock industry.
