CNVP Albania had the great pleasure of welcoming the Austrian Ambassador to Albania, H.E. Monika Zach, together with representatives from the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), for a field visit to Korthpulë, a small remote village in the Puka region.

The main purpose of this visit was to see in person the nature-based activities that Austria is supporting through ADA and that CNVP Albania is implementing in the area. These efforts are focused on fighting environmental damage and helping the local people improve their lives.

Korthpulë has faced many difficulties over the years, from forest and land degradation to serious soil erosion and social and economic problems. That is why CNVP Albania, with the help of ADA, has made this village a key area for intervention. Together with the local community, we are working on sustainable ways to take care of the environment while also creating better conditions for people living there.

One of the most important actions has been the reforestation of 3 hectares of damaged land. We planted chestnut trees – a species that is both ecologically valuable and culturally important in this region. This work is not only helping to restore nature, but it is also creating jobs for local men and women.

During the visit, community members warmly welcomed the Ambassador. Many said it meant a lot to them because very few high-level visitors come to Korthpulë. They appreciated that someone from outside came to listen and understand their reality.

“This support is more than just planting trees,” said one local representative. “It’s about bringing back hope and building a better future for our village.”

The benefits of this intervention are many and include:

• Protecting the soil from further erosion
• Better management of ground and surface water
• More biomass production
• Gardening materials for locals
• Timber and fruit production
• Flowers to support bees
• Shelter and food for wild animals

This project is a clear example of how nature-based solutions, when combined with strong partnerships and the involvement of local people, can bring real change – both to the environment and to the community.

The activities in Korthpulë are part of the Integrated Forest Management project, a three-year regional initiative funded by the Austrian Development Agency, initiated by ICEP - weltweit mehr unternehmen and implemented by CNVP Foundation.

We sincerely thank Ambassador Zach and ADA for believing in this village and for helping us bring life back to the beautiful hills of Korthpulë.