CNVP Albania organized the closing activity of an afforestation intervention in the Qerret area of Pukë, implemented within the framework of the project “Integrated Forest Management Along Drin River Basin (IFM)”.

The intervention, in cooperation with municipal forest administration staff and the Qerret Forest and Pasture Users Association, rehabilitated 5 hectares of degraded land in Korthpulë through the planting of 3 hectares of chestnut and 2 hectares of acacia. The initiative aimed to stabilize eroded soils, improve local environmental conditions, and create long-term economic opportunities for communities in the area.

The activity gathered high-level institutional representatives, including David Muckenhuber, Head of the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) in Albania; Deputy Minister Elda Xhumari from the Ministry of Environment; and Director Ylli Hoxha from the National Agency of Forests. Local authorities, including the Deputy Mayor and the General Secretary of the Municipality of Pukë, were also present, together with municipal forest administration staff and representatives of the Qerret Forest and Pasture Users Association.

Mr. Muckenhuber reaffirmed Austria’s commitment to supporting sustainable natural resource management in Albania, emphasizing that investments in afforestation and land restoration generate long-term environmental and socio-economic benefits. Deputy Minister Xhumari stressed the importance of coordinated action between national and local institutions, noting that the rehabilitation of degraded land contributes directly to environmental protection, climate resilience, and rural development. She also highlighted that partnerships with organizations such as CNVP are essential in supporting Albania’s environmental objectives within the European Union accession process.

Local authorities underlined that initiatives like IFM not only restore degraded forest areas but also strengthen the role of communities in managing natural resources responsibly. 

During the event, CNVP Albania Country Director Mrs. Anila Aliaj emphasized that sustainable forest management requires structured cooperation between institutions and local communities. She noted that the IFM project goes beyond tree planting, focusing on ecosystem restoration and the long-term strengthening of local capacities.

Overall, the IFM project, has achieved the afforestation of 20 hectares of new forest areas. Maintenance and expansion activities are ongoing to ensure sustainability and lasting environmental impact across the Drin River Basin.

The closing activity also served as a platform for exchanging experiences and sharing good practices among stakeholders. Through its integrated approach, the IFM project continues to support stronger local institutions and community-based structures capable of designing and implementing sustainable forest management initiatives in the future. 

“Integrated Forest Management Along Drin River Basin (IFM)” project is funded by ADA as part of International Partnerships Austria, initiated by ICEP - Association for Global Development and implemented by CNVP Foundation.