Last year, Bosnia and Herzegovina recorded its highest-ever tourism results, with a 31.67% increase in tourist arrivals and a 25.03% rise in overnight stays compared to the previous year. Even the record-breaking figures from 2019 have been surpassed, and growth continues this year. One of the country’s most enchanting destinations, Han Pijesak, has long been a favorite among both local and international tourists seeking a retreat in the serene mountains and picturesque villages of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Visitors are drawn to its abundance of high-quality local products, including artisanal cheeses, fresh juices, and natural teas produced by dedicated local farmers.
Han Pijesak’s Sustainable Rural Tourism Development with EU4AGRI
With financial support from the European Union through EU4AGRI, Han Pijesak has recognized its natural resources as the foundation for sustainable development, fostering collaboration among local producers and enhancing tourism infrastructure to attract visitors from across the region. This success story highlights how strategic support can revitalize rural areas, offering them opportunities for long-term prosperity and growth.
Slavica Ašonja, a tourism development expert from the Municipality of Han Pijesak, underscores the project’s importance for the community:
“The development of rural tourism in Han Pijesak has grown significantly in recent years. EU4AGRI arrived at the right moment, providing much-needed support for the expansion of this sector.”
A 215,000 BAM investment in Han Pijesak aimed to establish a sustainable rural tourism model based on the municipality’s natural resources by strengthening local producers and fostering their collaboration to create an integrated tourism offering.
The EU4AGRI project has successfully connected key local stakeholders, including:
- Local agricultural business that improved its production of high-quality dairy products, particularly Romanija skorup kajmak, which now holds geographical indication status
- Restaurant with accommodation facilities, which enhanced its energy efficiency and created new jobs.
- Rural tourism entrepreneur, who equipped a traditional vacation home, which is already highly rated on Booking.com.
- Local mountaineering club, which acquired high-quality bicycles and established a cycling section, enabling regional cycling events.
Infrastructure Improvements & Training Initiatives
EU4AGRI has invested heavily in rural tourism infrastructure, including the renovation of cycling and hiking trails, guest facilities, and accommodation capacities in Han Pijesak. However, one of the most crucial components has been training programs for agritourism development.
“Training is essential for the successful growth of rural tourism. Through EU4AGRI, local farmers have had the opportunity to enhance their skills, directly contributing to better preparation and implementation of agricultural and tourism products,” explains Slavica Ašonja.
The European Union’s Key Role in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Agricultural Sector
The European Union’s support has been instrumental in the success of Han Pijesak’s rural tourism development.
“The EU has provided us with access to strategically important funding and high-quality project implementation. These investments offer not just financial support but also opportunities for education and networking among local producers,” Ašonja states.
One of the major challenges local producers face is recognizing their potential and accessing institutional support.
“Tourism is a unique sector that requires institutional backing. Many agricultural producers don’t fully realize their potential, and EU support can significantly help in their development,” she adds.
Business Planning & Education
Slavica Ašonja has also been actively involved in EU4AGRI’s business planning training and has helped develop investment plans for multiple successful projects.
“Developing business plans is crucial for effectively utilizing funding. Training is essential to ensure that consultants can prepare high-quality business proposals for producers in this sector,” she emphasizes.
“The agricultural sector is currently very attractive for such funding. EU4AGRI has delivered outstanding results, proving that well-managed projects can significantly enhance agricultural production and processing,” says Slavica Ašonja.
Additionally, she notes the high demand for EU support in agriculture:
“From Bijeljina to Višegrad, we receive daily inquiries from farmers, processors, and suppliers—everyone wants to know when the next calls for funding will be announced. Interest is truly enormous, and we look forward to the continuation of this program.”
Ašonja calls on donors and international organizations to continue supporting future projects, emphasizing the importance of sustained investment in the sector:
“The agri-food sector is highly attractive for investment. This project has set a high standard, and the companies supported through EU4AGRI have become examples of best practices for others.”
EU4AGRI’s Continued Impact on Agriculture and Rural Development in BiH
With the support of the European Union, EU4AGRI continues to drive agricultural and rural development in Bosnia and Herzegovina, offering farmers and rural communities opportunities for prosperity and sustainability. The EU, in collaboration with UNDP and the Czech Development Agency (CzDA), has provided a wide range of support, including financial aid, education, and innovation promotion.
