Switzerland promotes agriculture in Puka

PUKA, Sep 28 – Swiss Cooperation in Albania together with “AGROPUKA” farmers association organized the AGROPUKA Promotion Day, in Puka last week.
The Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation in Albania, Yvana Enzler opened the promotion day in the presence of Members of Parliament, central and local government officials as well as representatives from business and donor community.
Switzerland has contributed to the promotion of agriculture in the district of Puka with 3.3 million Swiss francs (about 2 million Euros) over the last nine years.
This project has been focusing on the empowerment of farmers and has brought hope in these rural areas. It has supported the establishment of the farmers association AGROPUKA, recognized as an inspiring and unique model in rural development of poor mountainous areas for other regions in the country.
AGROPUKA association has contributed to the improved livelihood of rural population and has had a great impact on bringing change of mindset as well as increased women entrepreneurial spirit.
The new women Non-Governmental Organization “Progress of Mountainous Women”, aiming at promoting social and economic opportunities for women from Puka region, is an outstanding contribution of the project.
AGROPUKA key products of honey, dried fruits and mushrooms, blended tea and fruit juice have a unique market position for their nutrition values, quality, freshness and natural taste.
The mission of AGROPUKA is to contribute to the rural development in poor mountainous areas through marketing of agricultural and livestock products, training and advice.
AGROPUKA envisions to have an impact on the economic and social development of the rural areas.