”Milkos” is planning to realize 11 projects with a total value of 27 million euros. The most significant of the projects – the Biogas Plant – will produce a large amount of thermal energy, which will be used to power drying plants and aid in the production of organic manure (fermented cow dung). Due to the Biogas Plant’s importance, the success of the other projects will depend upon its success.
Among the planned projects, four hectares of tomatoe greenhouses are to be constructed, each with a projected annual production rate of 2,000 tons, confirmed the Director of Milkos, Adin Fakić.
COUNTING ON IPA FUNDS
“Other projects that are being planned include a farm of 4,500 goats, and the expansion of the existing inventory of the Spreča Farm from 1,500 to 2,500 cows”, said Fakić, explaining that with regard to the economic situation in B&H and the money market, the availability of favorable loans and IPA funds has decreased, and Milkos can no longer invest in itself. The proposed projects are being prepared since IPA funds are still expected to be available, he clarified.
“We want to prepare all 11 projects, and apply for the funds from the European Union. Our primary activity was the production of milk. Now, we want to expand this activity and bring in profitable projects into B&H, from which the local community – of which we will employ 500 people – will benefit”.
In terms of the Spreča Farm, Milkos hopes to encourage individual producers to enter into cooperative agreements with itself.
“We will provide them with seedlings of raspberries, blueberries, and other fruits that are easy to grow. We will also provide them with technical and other forms of support, and in turn we will purchase fruits from the producers, process the fruits, and place them onto the market”, explained Fakić.
The science community is being involved in all Milkos projects. Specifically, the Veterinary and Agricultural Faculties in Sarajevo are working with Milkos. The students of the Veterinary Faculty are being educated on the Spreča Farm, while high school students from the areas of Kalesija and Tuzla are being educated in the fields of cattle breeding and fruit growing.
(Source: ekapija.ba)
