Macedonian rural areas hide vast, yet still fully unexploited potential. Authentic landscapes, rich gastronomy, traditional hospitality, and craftsmanship make each of our villages unique. However, the reality faced by small agricultural households in the country is fraught with challenges – low and unstable incomes, market fluctuations, and an increasingly pronounced trend of youth migration. In response to these issues, the Institute of Agriculture – Skopje initiated the implementation of the project "Reviving Tradition and Preserving Nature." Its vision for development was recognized and financially supported by the Slovenian state, specifically through the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia and the Development Fund of the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of Slovenia.
The project activities began in May 2025 and will run until December 2026, with the total support amounting to 100,000 euros. The main mission of this initiative is not just one-time assistance, but a long-term investment in the economic empowerment of villages through the sustainable management of natural resources and the promotion of local culture. It is precisely the development of agro-ecotourism that emerges as a key opportunity for small farms. By combining traditional practices with tourism services, farmers are given a chance to diversify their income, which directly raises their standard of living and reduces the risk of poverty.
The project already boasts visible results. In the first phase, a detailed field research study was conducted, mapping more than 100 rural households across the country, each with its own authentic story and skills. Some of them have already had the opportunity to present their capacities to the wider public at an open event, showcasing the vibrant diversity of our rural areas. The ultimate goal is to actively involve at least 50 such households in the project activities, with a special emphasis on the economic independence of women and youth, encouraging them to see their future in their own hometowns.
Since this sector is still in its initial phase in our country, the Institute of Agriculture – Skopje is systematically working to build the capacities of the local population through a series of training sessions and workshops. As an important tool in this process, a Publication on Agro-Ecotourism was developed. With its practical and educational content, it will serve households as a detailed guide for creating high-quality tourism services.
The final result of these joint efforts will be the creation of two innovative and integrated agro-ecotourism offers that will directly involve local food producers, craftsmen, and small service providers. To make these offers accessible to the market and tourism agencies, a dedicated, modern e-platform will be created, through which operational testing and continuous promotion will be conducted.
Through this initiative, tourism development opens doors for all other local businesses in the communities, while tour operators gain new, authentic offers in their portfolios. The Institute of Agriculture – Skopje, together with its partners, continues to move toward the vision of modern, economically sustainable, and vibrant Macedonian villages that proudly preserve their nature and tradition.
