Partnership
In the fall of 2021, a partnership was signed between Bakhvi HPP Company and USAID. Specifically, memoranda of cooperation were signed with USAID's Economic Security Program and Securing Georgia’s Energy Future Program. Together, the partners embarked on several projects, including the illumination of Bakhmaro using energy-efficient LED lighting systems and the bolstering of the "Tea Route" association. Another project is planned aimed at boosting tourism development and bolstering small businesses.
#WeBuildInfrastructureTogether
In 2022, an unprecedented initiative unfolded in Bakhmaro through a partnership with the USAID Securing Georgia’s Energy Future Program. As a result, the central road of Bakhmaro now boasts illumination facilitated by an energy-efficient LED lighting system. This endeavor was carefully executed, considering both the tourist potential of Bakhmaro and the environmental impact. Over a 4.5-kilometer stretch of the central road, existing poles were replaced, and overhead wiring was discreetly moved underground (enhancing its safety and sustainability). Additionally, energy-efficient LED lights were integrated into the infrastructure. Notably, alongside company personnel, local individuals were engaged in the construction process. Upon completion, the project was transferred for the management to the Chokhatauri Municipality.
#WeBuildTogether
TourismAndeconomy
Starting in 2021, the Bakhvi HPP, in collaboration with the USAID Economic Security Program, has been actively backing small entrepreneurs in Guria. The project supports the "Tea Route" association, bolstering its institutional aspects and ensuring its long-term sustainability. This effort not only boosts the recognition of Guria tea but also establishes a cohesive branding strategy. Furthermore, the "Tea Route” was established, and about 20 hospitality venues were retrained along its path.
Since 2022, there have been regular tea festivals, exhibition-sales, and outdoor events where local entrepreneurs get together to learn about the latest developments, acquire new skills, and showcase and sell their own products.
It's worth noting that due to ongoing efforts and various initiatives, awareness of the "Tea Route" has been steadily growing year by year. This is evident in the increased sale of products and a rise in the number of visitors. For instance, in 2023, compared to the previous year, tea production saw a notable increase of nearly 12%, while income from tourism services surged by 30%. 2023 marked a record year for tourists visiting the establishments along the "Tea Route". In 2022, 2,000 tourists visited association members, but in 2023, this number rose to 3,700, with 60% of them being foreigners.
Since 2023, to empower women entrepreneurs Bakhvi HPP has been actively cooperating with the organization "Women for the Future, Chkhakaura Community" established to empower women residing in Chkhakaura socially and economically. The company provided them with computer equipment as a gift.
#WeBuildHeritageTogether
2023 წელს ბახვი ჰესი ცნობილი ქართველი რეჟისორის, ლევან კოღუაშვილის, საავტორო ფილმ „გურიის“ ერთ-ერთი სპონსორი გახდა. ფილმის გადაღების დაფინანსების მიზანი, რეგიონის ცნობადობის გაზრდა და ადგილობრივ თუ საერთაშორისო ასპარეზზე გურიის კიდევ უფრო მეტად წარმოჩენაა. ფილმის სცენარის ავტორები თავად ლევან კოღუაშვილი, ბორის ფრუმინი და ცნობილი ქართველი მწერალი, „გურული დღიურების“ ავტორი, გიორგი კეკელიძე არიან.