Tropoja, nestled in the Albanian Alps, is a region where the allure of natural beauty is matched by its rich cultural tapestry. This area, renowned for its scenic landscapes and historical significance, also stands out for its unique and authentic culture, especially in the realm folk practices. Tropoja traditional folk dance is recognized by UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage list. Simultaneously, Tropoja is a leader in branding and producing distinctive agricultural products in northern Albania. Renowned for its chestnuts and chestnut honey, along with blueberries from its highlands, Tropoja, has successfully branded these products.
In parallel with these rich cultural and agricultural practices, Tropoja is navigating the challenges of digitalization in its rural settings. The region grapples with issues related to mobile internet access, such as underdeveloped network infrastructure and high service costs. Despite these challenges, smartphones have become the primary digital tool among residents, facilitating access to social media, online communication, and government services like e-Albania.
In parallel with these rich cultural and agricultural practices, Tropoja is navigating the challenges of digitalization in its rural settings. The region grapples with issues related to mobile internet access, such as underdeveloped network infrastructure and high service costs. Despite these challenges, smartphones have become the primary digital tool among residents, facilitating access to social media, online communication, and government services like e-Albania.
Challenges
There's a noticeable variation in digital literacy among residents with the older population being less digitally literate resulting in challenges in accessing and using digital technology due to economic and informational barriers.
The rural community experiences limited access to digital devices due to economic, age, and information constraints, affecting their ability to utilize available digital services. Residents predominantly use social media for communication, but the overall availability of digital services is heavily dependent on the local internet infrastructure.
Tropoja struggles with inadequate mobile network infrastructure, limited signal availability, high service costs, slow internet speeds, and poor network coverage, especially in remote areas.
Video
Digital Villages in Action in Europe and Central Asia: Focus on Albania
10/01/2024
Digital Villages in Action in Europe and Central Asia virtual event launched DVI actions in eight countries, bringing together policy actors, stakeholders, partners, and beneficiaries. Barbara Battioni Romanelli, UN Fellow of FAO Albania discussed Albania’s progress and plans for the introduction of DVI in the country.
