LocationsThe "Bacii Sudului" shepherding cluster has turned the tradition of sheep farming into a sustainable business
April 11, 2025
Dumitru Zaporojan, a folk craftsman and vice-president of the "Bacii Sudului" cluster.
In the south of Moldova, the tradition of sheep farming is taking on a new life thanks to the "Bacii Sudului" shepherding cluster, made up of 17 active members - from farmers and meat processors to craftsmen specialized in processing sheep skins.
From tradition to modern development
The Cahul region offers favorable conditions for sheep farming, especially for the indigenous breed of ewe - țigaie, appreciated for the quality of its dairy products and meat. But to make the most of this natural potential, modern infrastructure and technology are needed to support the sustainable development of the sector.
"I joined the cluster in the hope that I will be able to better develop my business," said Dumitru Zaporojan, a folk craftsman and vice-president of the "Bacii Sudului" cluster.
With the support of the "EU4Moldova: Focal Regions" programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP and UNICEF, the "Bacii Sudului" cluster has made investments aimed at improving production processes: the purchase of a modern slaughterhouse in Slobozia Mare and the equipment with specialized machinery for sheep and goat shearing, facilitating efficient wool processing
The production process, from the rearing of lambs to the delivery of meat and cheese to consumers, is rigorous and carefully supervised to guarantee the quality of the final products.
EU invests in shepherding development in Moldova
"The slaughterhouse is equipped with modern equipment and complies with all the requirements of the National Food Safety Authority. We want to conquer the local market with quality products and in the future to open the way for exports to the European Union. We want to encourage the consumption of locally produced meat and cheese, thus contributing to the development of rural communities and preserving our traditions," said Domnica Căpățină, manager of the "Bacii Sudului" shepherding cluster.
So far, the "Bacii Sudului" shepherding cluster has managed to strengthen the collaboration between farmers and processors, facilitating access to local and international markets.
"Clustering brings a number of benefits to its members such as: access to research and innovation, employment and infrastructure. With the help of the ‘EU4Moldova: Focal Regions’ programme, the cluster has obtained bronze certification, which will give them visibility on the European cluster map and open access to EU funding and partnerships," explained Simion Berzoi, business development manager in the "EU4Moldova: Focal Regions" programme.
The total value of investments made with the support of the "EU4Moldova: Focal Regions" programme is 100,000 euro, which is directed to the modernization of infrastructure, purchase of equipment and professional development of cluster members.
