#AgriculturalInnovation #SustainableFarming #HealthyCrops #CulturalDiversity #AfricanAgronomist
In the heart of Almaty, a remarkable African agronomist is turning heads by cultivating exotic vegetables that serve as innovative alternatives to conventional staples like potatoes and bread. Tiediugu Kulibali, hailing from the distant lands of Mali, has been harvesting bountiful yields of sweet potatoes for several years now, sparking a successful endeavor to nurture a variety of unique plants.
Mr. John, as he is affectionately known, tends to every inch of his land with meticulous care, reaping generous harvests of sweet potatoes in gratitude for the seeds that journeyed from Mali five years ago. Surprisingly, cultivating this uncommon vegetable in Kazakhstan’s climate has proven relatively smooth for him. Now, Mr. John intends to transform his passion into a profitable enterprise.
“I thought I could bring these crops here and contribute to Kazakhstan’s development. Sweet potatoes are incredibly beneficial, and I realized I could successfully cultivate them,” shared agronomist Tiediugu Kulibali.
To his neighbors, Tiediugu Kulibali is simply Mr. John. Arriving in the late 1980s to pursue education, the African scholar later decided to establish roots in the country. Since then, he has been driven by the dream of diversifying the diet of Kazakhstan’s population with healthier and more intriguing food options.
” I came here in 1987 for my studies. Graduated from the Agricultural University in 1993, and I’ve been here ever since,” revealed Tiediugu Kulibali.
Sweet potatoes, often referred to as “sweet potatoes,” boast greater nutritional value than their standard counterparts. With fewer calories and a naturally sweet flavor, they’re a boon for those seeking to shed extra weight. Yet, their advantages don’t end there.
“Sweet potatoes are a healthier choice for everyone, particularly for preventing high blood sugar, excessive insulin production, and ultimately, type 2 diabetes and obesity. They can be prepared in numerous ways, from boiling to frying, and in some regions, even drying and making preserves,” noted Dr. Almagul Erzhekenova, a physician and dietitian.
Mr. John’s cultivation efforts extend beyond sweet potatoes; he’s also pioneering the growth of a unique bean variety that’s unprecedented in the country. This hardy plant thrives in Kazakhstan’s climate, with the first harvest expected by the end of September.
According to the agronomist, his experiences in Mali have unveiled several other intriguing crops that could be successfully grown as experiments in Kazakhstan. Currently, his field trials are yielding promising results.
As Mr. John continues to nurture these overseas treasures on Kazakhstani soil, his dedication to innovative farming techniques and sustainable agriculture remains an inspiration to all.
