Promoting Sustainable Agriculture in Shar Mountains

August 26, 2024 – Popova Shapka, Macedonia

The agricultural community in the Shar Mountain region recently took significant steps toward embracing sustainable practices through a series of initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of local farmers. These efforts were part of the ongoing project “Strengthening Rural Areas: Promoting Sustainability in Local Communities,” spearheaded by the Center for Education and Development (CED) in collaboration with the Sharri Agricultural Cooperative and supported by the “Empower Europe” program of We Effect Europe.

Three-Day Workshop on Sustainable Agricultural Techniques

A three-day workshop brought together farmers from the Shar Mountain region and across Macedonia to explore sustainable agricultural techniques. Throughout the sessions, participants gained valuable knowledge on how to apply environmentally friendly practices to their farming operations. 

The team was pleased to welcome Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Economy; Dr. Flakron Bexheti. Dr. Bexheti joined the visit to local farms in the Bërvenica Municipality, where farmers observed practical examples of sustainable agriculture in action. 

Cooperation to Support Farmers in Vejce

The join project began on April 25, 2024, with the signing of a memorandum of cooperation in the village of Vejce. The agreement, signed by Mr. Metin Muaremi, chairman of CED, and Mrs. Behare Neziri, president of the Sharri Cooperative, laid the groundwork for the “Potato Harvest Initiative.” This initiative is designed to enhance the production and distribution of agricultural products by small farmers in the region. The Sharri Cooperative will play a crucial role in aggregating products and bringing them directly to market, ensuring better marketing opportunities and support for local farmers. This partnership is a pivotal element of the “Empower Europe” program’s sub-program focused on boosting income and socio-economic empowerment for vulnerable and marginalized groups.

Through these efforts, the project aims to create stable living conditions in rural areas, improving the economic well-being of farmers in the Shar Mountain region. The initiatives demonstrate a commitment to fostering sustainable agriculture and building stronger, more resilient communities.