Young Advisors Strengthening Climate Resilience in Istog in Kosovo

Extreme weather events are increasingly affecting agricultural production in Kosovo, challenging farmers and their investments. In the Municipality of Istog, recent strong winds damaged demonstration plots using agrotextile – a protective agricultural fabric used to cover crops and improve growing conditions.

This intervention is part of a broader effort to strengthen Kosovo’s agricultural sector to adapt to climate changes through innovation. CNVP Kosovo, the Organika Association, and leading MAPs exporter Agroprodukt, have come together to combine modern technology – agrotextile – with traditional cultivation to help local farmers meet rising EU standards and regain access to competitive markets.

Within this framework, agrotextile has been introduced for the first time in Kosovo as a climate-smart solution to protect crops, improve soil moisture retention, and support higher yields under changing weather conditions.

However, the recent wind damage in Istog also highlights an important reality: while such innovations bring clear benefits, they must be continuously adapted to withstand increasing climate risks.

In response, the young agricultural advisors engaged under the Organika Association - who are also part of the Kosovo National Land Coalition (NLC) - took the lead in providing immediate field support. They turned a challenging situation into a practical learning and adaptation opportunity.

The young advisors were present on the ground, working closely with farmers. Their regular monitoring of the demonstration plots allowed them to provide timely and practical technical advice.

Rather than only assessing damage, the young advisors engaged farmers in joint problem-solving - evaluating losses, assessing mitigation measures, and what next steps should be taken. This approach shows how CNVP Kosovo, through the NLC, is helping build local skills, support young professionals, and assist farmers in adapting to climate change.

This hands-on approach highlights the growing role of young professionals in Kosovo’s agricultural advisory system. By staying active in the field, they respond to farmers’ needs, solve problems as they arise, and help farms adapt to climate change and become more resilient.

Read about other interventions in the broader effort to strengthen Kosovo’s agricultural sector to adapt to climate changes in the 'Keep on Reading' section below.