Sustainable collection of non-wood forest products (NWFP) and the cultivation of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAPs) in the region of Sharri/Korab/Koritnik, was in the focus of discussions during the roundtable organized in Tetovo (North Macedonia) with collectors and harvesters of NWFPs and MAPs, and other representatives from central and local institutions.

The event was organized in the framework of the “Sustainable Future for Sharr/ Korab-Koritnik” project and followed two other roundtables organized in July in Prizren (Kosovo) and Peshkopi (Albania).

During the discussions, it was said that the sector of non-wood forest products has great potential for development, and participants identified the main problems for their collection and cultivation of MAPs.

The discussions held during these workshops will be used to finalize the analysis sustainable collection of NWFP’s and possibility for the cultivation of MAPs. In addition, they will contribute in identifying the main strengths and weaknesses of the sector in this region. The analyses will provide recommendations for improvement and training for key stakeholders in three countries (Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia) will increase capacities of farmers and traders on sustainable NWFP value chains and cultivation of MAPs.

The project “Sustainable Future for Sharr/Korab-Koritnik”, funded by DBU, Jensen-Funds, and EURONATUR aims to support sustainable regional development, increase engagement of local people, improvement the habitats, and strengthen transboundary cooperation.