As part of the CONNECTA project, EcoAlbania held a series of meetings with municipalities along the southern part of the Polis-Valamarë-Rungajë-Moravë-Gramoz ecological corridor, including Skrapar, Maliq, Devoll, Korcë, and Kolonjë. The meetings aimed to strengthen cooperation and identify opportunities for joint action across the territory.
The meetings represented an important step in implementing the project, building on the work initiated through the ISCCA project. During the meetings, EcoAlbania presented the project, its objectives and activities, as well as the concept of ecological corridors, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development. At the same time, the meetings provided an opportunity to learn more about the priorities, challenges, and initiatives being developed by each municipality in its territory.
From Sustainable Tourism to Rural Development
In the Municipality of Skrapar, discussions focused particularly on the potential of sustainable tourism, including hiking trails, rafting, the promotion of local products and activities linked to the area’s traditions. Potential areas for cooperation were identified, including trail mapping, training for local guides, and the development of activities that connect tourism with the natural values of the area.
In the Municipality of Maliq, discussions focused on opportunities for the sustainable development of rural areas and the villages within the municipality. Hiking trails were also discussed, as well as opportunities to connect rural development with the promotion and sustainable use of natural resources.
In the Municipality of Devoll, representatives of the forestry sector shared their experience in the rehabilitation of forests and the challenges they face. One of the issues raised during the meeting was the increasing problem of forest fires, which represents an important challenge for the management and protection of forest ecosystems.
In the Municipality of Korçë, discussions focused on the municipality’s extensive forest areas and the initiatives undertaken to protect them. One of the issues addressed was reducing pressure on forests for household firewood through measures promoting home thermal insulation and improved energy efficiency. The municipality also shared information on the support provided for this process.
In the Municipality of Kolonjë, attention focused on initiatives for the development and promotion of local products. Representatives shared examples of work to collect, process and package traditional products from local farmers and livestock keepers. These initiatives aim to create economic opportunities for local communities and increase the value of local products.
Cooperation for a More Connected Territory
The meetings showed that each municipality has its own characteristics, priorities and challenges, while also highlighting common opportunities to connect nature conservation with local development. Sustainable tourism, forest rehabilitation and protection, rural development, local products and community engagement are among the areas where opportunities for cooperation can be developed within the CONNECTA project.
These meetings will provide a basis for continued dialogue with the municipalities and for identifying concrete activities and next steps during the implementation of the project. Through this cooperation, CONNECTA aims to strengthen the link between biodiversity conservation, ecological corridors and theneeds of local communities, contributing to more sustainable territorial development.
