The Women’s Economic Empowerment in Rural Areas of Kosovo (WEERA) project reached a significant milestone on November 27th with its Final Advocacy Conference, celebrating the empowerment of rural women in Kosovo.
This initiative has helped women build sustainable agricultural businesses, transforming their communities. The event gathered key stakeholders to reflect on the incredible journey of progress and highlight the bright future ahead for these women.
A Call for Sustainable Growth
In his opening speech, H.E. Georg Schnetzer, Ambassador of Austria in Kosovo, emphasized the importance of empowering women as a key element for sustainable development. “By giving rural women the tools they need to succeed, we are investing in a more inclusive and sustainable future for all of Kosovo,” said the ambassador. He also highlighted the critical role of the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), which has been a key partner in Kosovo’s economic growth and development, particularly in supporting the agricultural sector. The ADA’s funding and commitment to the WEERA project have been vital in strengthening the local economy and fostering inclusive growth.
The event also featured remarks from Ms. Venera Çerkini, General Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Rural Development. She acknowledged the significant challenges faced by women in rural areas, including limited resources and opportunities. Çerkini reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to helping women break barriers and grow their businesses.
Ms.Vesna Jovanović, Social Economic Inclusion Regional Coordinator at CARE International, outlined key advocacy points stemming from the project, such as boosting local production, enhancing product visibility, and ensuring timely payments for rural businesses.
Achievements on the Ground
Project Manager Ms. Rita Berisha highlighted the remarkable achievements of the WEERA project since its launch in September 2022. The initiative has modernized 19 businesses by providing 87 pieces of equipment worth €150,000, with €110,000 funded by the Austrian Development Agency and €40,000 by the Municipality of Peja. This investment has significantly reduced physical labor, shortened production times, and boosted efficiency for women entrepreneurs.
The project also supported six businesses in showcasing their products at the Agrokos Fair, while awareness sessions engaged over 427 participants in discussions about transitioning women’s work in agriculture from unpaid to paid roles. The project’s promotional efforts reached over 225,000 people, increasing the demand for locally made, natural products.
Voices from the Field
The conference featured two panels highlighting the challenges and triumphs of women in agribusiness.
Panel I was focused on the role of local government in addressing barriers for women in agriculture. Experts, including Ms. Jetmira Gllogjani Vula and Ms. Shqipe Alihajdari Shala, discussed policies to improve land ownership for women and support their agro-businesses.
Panel II gave a platform to project beneficiaries like Mirsada Zeneli, owner of “Ajvari i Dukagjinit.” She shared how WEERA transformed her business: “Since I won this grant, things have improved 100%. The new equipment allowed me to employ two single mothers during the ajvar season, and I now have 19 products on the market.”
Looking Ahead
The conference marked the culmination of WEERA’s efforts to empower women and promote sustainable development in rural Kosovo. By helping women overcome systemic barriers, the project has paved the way for a more equitable and prosperous future.
For more stories and updates about WEERA’s impact, visit:
https://katror.info/fuqizimi-i-grave-ne-zonat-rurale-nje-storie-suksesi-e-weera/
