Digital Villages Initiative in Europe and Central Asia

The Brežani-Tršće rural community is situated in the picturesque basins of two rivers, Zgošća and Trstionica, and comprises 16 inhabited areas with a combined population of 10 091. Nestled close to the renowned ski hub of Ponijeri and the historic Kraljeva Sutjeska site, this rural community has both natural and cultural significance. Despite the presence of sizable industrial enterprises in the Kakanj municipality, agriculture remains the primary economic activity for the members of the rural community. The key agricultural assets include greenhouse vegetable cultivation, on-farm dairy operations with milk processing, and cattle husbandry, in which a cow-calf system is employed. 

Brežani-Tršće’s robust cultural-historical legacy, well-developed infrastructure, and promising entrepreneurial and tourism opportunities offer significant potential. The community benefits from well-developed associations and networks, exemplified by the prominent “TRST Tršće” Women's Association and the umbrella “KAP Kakanj” farmers’ associations, along with eight sectoral associations. These entities are at the heart of the community’s capacity for self-organization, advocacy and collective endeavours. Rich in such natural resources as fertile land and pristine water sources, as well as cultural and historical landmarks, Brežani-Tršće is uniquely positioned for the championing of sustainable agricultural practices and for capitalizing on the developing agritourism market. Furthermore, the integration of digital solutions into the agriculture sector has the potential to catalyse growth and enhance cross-sector collaboration. 

Challenges

Dominated by small farms, the community struggles due to its limited investment capacity, which in turn affects the procurement of modern machinery and technologies. This situation is exacerbated by the outdated practices and low mechanization of the community, which leads to suboptimal production efficiency and a lack of competitiveness in the wider market.  

The disinterest of young people in agriculture is a common problem in Bosnia and Herzegovina, driving their migration to urban centres and threatening to deepen the labour shortage. The openness of the young population to new technologies is crucial for the adoption of modern agricultural practices, which makes their departure a significant obstacle to innovation and sustainability within the community. 

Despite its proximity to prominent tourist attractions and a constant flow of visitors, the agricultural sector remains largely disconnected from the tourism sector. Opportunities for direct sales of local products in popular locations, such as Ponijeri resort and the historical sites in Kraljeva Sutjeska, remain untapped, and farmers lack the digital presence to market their products to wider audiences. 

One of the most urgent challenges faced in Brežani-Tršće is the evident gap in skills and knowledge, especially in the use of digital technologies and modern agricultural methods. Despite the widespread use of smartphones and the Internet among young people, there is a significant lack of initiatives, projects or training programmes aimed at harnessing these tools for rural development. 
 

Highlights

18/05/2023

In 2021, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nation (FAO) launched the global Digital Villages Initiative to promote digital innovations to rural communities.

10/03/2022

Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries constitute the backbone of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s economy. With the signing of a new accord between FAO and the country today, the parties pledged to ensure sustainable, resilient, and inclusive growth of the sector. The Country Programming Framework outlines mutual cooperation through 2025.

12/04/2022

FAO launched a new initiative in Bosnia and Herzegovina to help selected local authorities boost agriculture and economic development through local agriculture and rural development plans and corresponding action plans.

Video

10/01/2024

Digital Villages in Action in Europe and Central Asia virtual event launched DVI actions in eight countries, bringing together policy actors, stakeholders, partners, and beneficiaries. Grujica Vico, National Digital Villages Specialist of FAO Bosnia and Herzegovina discussed the country’s progress and plans for the introduction of DVI.

Small ruminant value chains in Western Balkan countries

Jun 28, 2024, 14:17 PM
The report delineates four principal market channels for small ruminant milk and three for small ruminant meat that farmers utilize for product commercialization.
Title : Small ruminant value chains in Western Balkan countries
Link to External Url : https://openknowledge.fao.org/items/9a661b71-02d6-47ea-8a7d-e3497b5fd9fc
Open this link in a new window : Yes
*Publication Date : Jan 1, 2023, 12:00 PM
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Digital Agriculture Team

FAO Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia

[email protected]