Regional Meeting in Kukes , Albania Highlights Sustainable Initiatives and Community Collaboration

CNVP Albania is seeking to promote and pilot new approaches and practices in biodiversity protection, nature-based tourism and NTFPs management in the protected areas of Korab Koritnik and Albanian Alps. It is doing so by joining forces and implementing a grant scheme for local stakeholders (local NGOs, local businesses, farmers, and community members) in order to build awareness, capacities and provide incentives for nature conservation and income generation.

On July 23, 2024, a regional meeting organized in Kukes, Albania bringing together grantees from the latest call to share experiences and foster cooperation among local organizations and farmers.Participants included local NGOs and farmers spanning from Çaje, in the south of Kukes municipality, to Tropoja's Valbona Valley.

The meeting focused on several key activities supported by the latest grant call:

Beekeeping in Protected Areas: Participants discussed beekeeping initiatives within protected areas, which not only contribute to biodiversity conservation but also boost the incomes of local communities.

Yellow Gentian Cultivation: The cultivation of Yellow Gentian, a species declared at risk, was a significant topic. The initiative aims to ensure the sustainable harvesting of this and other wild medicinal plants by applying technical rules that promote the continuity of new plant generations.

Quality Production: Emphasis was placed on improving the quality of medicinal plant production through proper harvesting, drying, preservation, and storage techniques. This effort is expected to increase business interest in high-quality products from the area.

Identification of Cultivation Sites: The meeting identified some of the most promising locations for the cultivation of medicinal plants. This will create opportunities to connect local farmers with businesses interested in cultivating these valuable plants.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the importance of sustainable development practices and the role of local communities in preserving biodiversity while enhancing economic opportunities.