Community efforts in Shebenik National Park support livelihoods and protect wildlife

In a groundbreaking initiative, World Vision Albania, with support from the Prespa Ohrid Nature Trust (PONT), is bridging the gap between economic development and biodiversity conservation. This collaboration focuses on empowering young people and supporting local beekeepers in the Shebenik National Park area by working on bolstering family economies while preserving the environment.

On June 18th, a significant step was taken towards mitigating human-wildlife conflict. Artina Morava, the Operational Director of World Vision Albania, and Daniela Ruçi, Grants Coordinator for PONT, joined 20 beekeepers and representatives of RAPA Elbasan in Qarrishtë village, Librazhd. The gathering provided a platform for beekeepers to exchange ideas and learn from environmental experts about sustainable practices that protect both their livelihoods and the protected area.

One pressing issue discussed was the conflict between beekeepers and wildlife, mainly brown bears. Drini, a local beekeeper, shared his experience of losing around ten hives to bear attacks in the past year. This issue has intensified as bears venture closer and closer to villages; a trend attributed to the declining human population in these areas following urban migration.

A Director of RAPA Elbasan promised a solution during the event: installing electric fences to protect beehives from wild animals. This environmentally friendly, solar-charged fencing system is designed to deter wildlife without causing harm. One beneficiary family has had the first fence installed already and shows the practical and innovative approach that can be taken to resolve these conflicts.

In total 14 beekeepers will receive these electric fences, marking a significant step towards safeguarding their livelihoods and promoting coexistence with wildlife. This initiative is part of the larger project “Building a Community Response for the Protection of Biodiversity in Korab-Koritnik Park and Shebenik National Park,” funded by PONT and implemented by World Vision Albania in collaboration with Agritra Vizion in Dibër and “Beyond Today” in Librazhd.

This initiative highlights the power of community-based solutions in addressing environmental challenges. By supporting local economies and implementing innovative strategies, World Vision Albania and PONT are fostering harmonious relationships between humans and wildlife, ensuring biodiversity protection for future generations.