A Step Towards Sustainable Gastronomy and Tourism Development in Kosovo

To support the sustainable development of Kosovo's tourism sector, FEGO facilitated the participation of 10 Kosovo tourism MSMEs at Terra Madre Salone del Gusto 2024. This initiative aimed to address the knowledge gap in effectively operating the farm-to-fork model, which is one of the main constraints for agritourism MSMEs and initiatives in Kosovo. Although agritourism and culinary tourism are emerging fields in the country, local MSMEs often face challenges in successfully implementing sustainable models like farm-to-fork. The visit provided participants with valuable insights into sustainable practices in food systems worldwide and highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting authentic, locally grown foods as part of the tourism offer. The event also featured workshops showcasing how chefs and small-scale producers, who create products that embody the local culture, are transformed into storytellers and active participants in tourism. These workshops demonstrated how they not only produce high-quality, culturally significant items but also create immersive experiences for visitors, connecting them to the origins and stories behind these products. By selling their goods in a tourism context, these producers turn their culinary creations into a narrative, inviting tourists to explore the local culture through flavors and traditions. Ultimately, this approach enriches the tourism experience and promotes sustainable local development.

During the visit, the Kosovo delegation had the opportunity to engage with international stakeholders and meet with members of Slow Food International responsible for the Balkans region. This exchange of knowledge and ideas aimed to give participants a first-hand experience of the movement and inspire them to replicate successful practices in their own contexts. The meeting with Slow Food International representatives allowed the Kosovo MSMEs to share their experiences, discuss challenges, and explore potential collaborations. The overall goal of this initiative was to raise awareness and support MSMEs in adopting sustainable gastronomy principles. Through exposure to global best practices, the participating MSMEs returned with fresh ideas and a deeper understanding of sustainable food production and its cultural dimensions. This experience is expected to contribute to enriching Kosovo’s culinary tourism offer and promoting the principles of environmentally friendly and community-based food production.

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The project Fostering Employment and Growth Opportunities (FEGO) aims to boost inclusive market systems development in Kosovo to generate self-employment in the apparel, furniture, and rural tourism sectors. Funded by SIDA, implemented by Swisscontact.