CNVP Kosovo is studying the role of women in forestry and non-timber forest product value chains, as well as their involvement in the decision-making processes of associations of private forest owners (APFOs). During Phase I of the study (undertaken in May 2018), meetings were held with different stakeholders including the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development, local producers/collectors/exporters, and donors.

The producer group of APFO Gryka e Kacanikut from Kacanik organized 20 families to cultivate medicinal plants (black mallow, marigold and cornflower). 60,000 seedlings were provided to families where women plant, grow and develop value chains. The producer group has agreed with Agroproducti, Istog to collect, certify, dry and export the products cultivated.

CNVP Kosovo has supported networking and cooperation between two producer groups of APFO Breza, Shterpce and a producer group from Gjakova regarding cultivation of aronia. The producer group from Gjakova delivered 850 seedlings to the Shterpce producer group to support production, promotion, marketing, networking and processing of forest fruits.

Activities to increase the capacities of vulnerable women and youth related to non-timber forest product value chains are supported under the SIDA-funded project Strengthening Sustainable Private and Decentralized Forestry that is being implemented by CNVP Kosovo.