Kosovo launches the development of the Digital Agriculture Programme and Action Plan with FAO support

Pristina, Kosovo, November 5, 2024 – On Tuesday, November 5, FAO convened more than 40 stakeholders in an Inception workshop to initiate the development of Kosovo’s¹ Digital Agriculture Programme and Action Plan. Attendees from across sectors gathered to discuss the work ahead, aimed at driving the digital transformation of agriculture in Kosovo. 

In collaboration with FAO, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development (MAFRD) is committed to creating a vision and identifying strategic actions to be prioritized for the digitalization of agriculture. The development of the Programme builds upon an assessment of the country’s digital agriculture landscape, conducted in 2022, and will be aligned with Kosovo’s existing strategic framework and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It will also gear Kosovo toward meeting EU pre-accession requirements and aligning to international best practices. Additionally, it will integrate gender-responsive measures and address the specific needs of smallholder farmers. A formal working group, led by MAFRD, will be established to drive this inclusive agenda forward with input from a wide range of stakeholders.  

The Minister, Faton Peci, highlighted the strategic significance of digitalization in agriculture, calling it a priority for increasing competitiveness and sustainability. “The digitalization process is of special importance, knowing the value of agriculture, which contributes 15% to our GDP, and is a sector with immense development potential,” he said. He underscored that digital solutions would enhance productivity and align with Kosovo’s strategic framework. 

“By integrating digital tools across all areas, this initiative not only enhances productivity and market access but also strengthens rural economies and empowers farmers with the skills needed to adopt innovative practices” said Daniela Di Gianantonio, Head of Digital Agriculture at FAO Regional Office for Europe and Central Asia. “Through this programme, we are ensuring that Kosovo’s agricultural sector is aligned with EU standards and able to leverage digitalization for inclusive public services”. 

Following the official opening, the workshop participants engaged in focused discussions on key thematic areas. The interactive sessions offered a platform for stakeholders to exchange insights and contribute to the formulation of the vision and strategic objectives for Kosovo’s digital agriculture transformation.  

In conclusion, the development of the Digital Agriculture Programme and Action Plan represents a significant milestone in Kosovo’s journey toward a more efficient, competitive, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agricultural sector, directly supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by promoting food security, reducing inequalities, fostering economic growth, and encouraging responsible resource use in agriculture.

¹ All references to Kosovo shall be understood to be in the context of Security Council resolution 1244 (1999).