The Regional Development Agency for Bjelasica, Komovi, and Prokletije, in partnership with the Municipality of Berane, is implementing the EU-funded project “Rural Tourism for Economic Development of the Cross-Border Area of Kosovo and Montenegro.”
The project aims to create a thematic trail connecting “katuns”—traditional mountain shepherd settlements—and integrating them into the tourism offer. A key activity involved providing solar systems to 49 families, significantly improving living conditions and enabling them to offer services to tourists in areas without grid electricity.
User Testimonial: “Who would have believed it! I hadn’t seen a light bulb since May. Using gas and candles made work hard, especially cheese-making, but the hardest part was charging phones to stay in touch,” said Mrs. Novović from the Štit katun.
Research Results and Next Steps
Surveys revealed that for 100% of applicants, this was their first time benefiting directly from EU funds. Further activities include establishing rural camps, resting areas, and trail signaling, alongside promotional efforts. The project is set to conclude by July 15, 2017.
