The Upper Vrbas region was hard-hit during the war in Bosnia due to the displacement of families and the widespread destruction of property. Today, many years after the war’s end, the population still struggles with high levels of poverty and unemployment.

With the factories where they once worked now destroyed, the residents of the Upper Vrbas region believe that the best opportunity for economic development is through agricultural production. The area is rich in natural resources and agricultural potential, however, residents face severe obstacles in terms of poor infrastructure and a lack of market linkages and technical support.

In answer to these local needs, Partners for Development has been working with farmers to organize the Independent Farmers Association (IFA). The goal is to assist farmers to improve their level of production and their access to markets through mutual cooperation, provision of credit and technical services, and through forming partnerships with private sector agricultural entities.

IFA member Smajo Mekic came to Bugojno because of the beneficial conditions for sheepbreeding: milder winters and better pastures than in other areas of Bosnia. He originally heard about the IFA from people at the cattle market and at first did not believe that it would bring any benefits. He soon learned of the benefits first-hand.

In fall 2003, Mekic participated in the IFA Joint Procurement where he was able to purchase high quality food for his 180 sheep at a reduced price. “The IFA helps me to feed my sheep and to increase the number of livestock,” said Mekic.

Mekic also applied for a loan through the IFA credit program, which he used to develop his business. He and his family of eight depend on sheep breeding which is a tradition that has run in his family for centuries.

After the war, many young people tried to leave Bosnia looking for a better future, but Mekic saw things differently. “There is a future here, but everyone has to work their hardest,” said Mekic.