LocationsUNDP Albania
Reviving Traditions and Rebuilding Lives in Devoll
September 11, 2023
Ten women, determined to rewrite their futures, discovered a project designed to assist women returnees in reclaiming their lives through tailored support, unwavering determination, and hard work. The EU-funded, UNDP-implemented Regional Roma Returnee Reintegration Project recognized the need for customized solutions, understanding that one-size-fits-all approaches fall short.
UNDP Albania
It is called Trahana; it’s made from a mixture of cracked wheat or flour and yogurt, which is fermented and then dried.
The result is small, hard pellets or chunks that can be stored for extended periods of time. It may be flavoured with ingredients like garlic, butter, herbs, or something altogether. It is perfect for the winter.
Empowering Women in the Regional Roma Returnee Reintegration Project: A Skilled Woman Making Trahana in Devoll
Albanian women have perfected this culinary treasure year after year, primarily for their own households, preserving a cherished tradition that spans generations.
In the municipality of Devoll, where 35,000 residents call home, this beloved tradition has taken a unique and inspiring turn, fuelled by necessity and unwavering determination. Families in the area embarked on journeys of migration in pursuit of better opportunities, only to return to Albania, facing a fresh set of challenges.
Their return home revealed a common struggle—securing stable income and formal employment remained elusive for many. Limited access to education, illiteracy, and a lack of formal work experience compounded their difficulties. Housing concerns added to their vulnerabilities, and returnees grappled with limited personal networks while combating unfounded stereotypes.
Amidst these adversities, a glimmer of hope emerged. Ten women, determined to rewrite their futures, discovered a project designed to assist women returnees in reclaiming their lives through tailored support, unwavering determination, and hard work. The EU-funded, UNDP-implemented Regional Roma Returnee Reintegration Project recognized the need for customized solutions, understanding that one-size-fits-all approaches fall short.
In Devoll, renowned for its culinary traditions, the project partnered with a local civil society organization, "Qëndistaret," and embarked on an initiative that identified unemployed returnees, provided profiles through NGOs, and facilitated their registration as active job seekers.
Handmade soap from the abundant olive oil in Devoll
The project collaborates closely with the Municipality and the Regional Directorate of the National Employment and Training Agency, with one key objective in mind: to facilitate the employment of these women, encouraging them to develop entrepreneurial skills related to cooking and the promotion of local traditional cuisine.
The project's impact was further honed through the development of local action plans in three key project areas: Berat, Fier, and Devoll. Collaborating closely with local government institutions, the project bolstered service provision by establishing multi-stakeholder platforms and crafting case management protocols tailored to the unique reintegration needs of the returnees.
Driven by an unwavering commitment to secure a better life for their families, the ten women united to form a social enterprise. Their aspirations knew no bounds as one group focused into crafting soap from the abundant olive oil in Devoll, while the other honed their mastery in ‘’trahana’’ and ‘’petka’” production. Petka, a traditional local product made of flour and eggs, found its place in their repertoire.
Reflecting on their journey, Juredina Gjiza says "We've always made tarhana and petka for our households. This time, with guidance from the NGO, we joined forces to create a social enterprise and produce this traditional food for sale".
The project provided essential resources, ranging from ingredients and premises to etiquette and packaging expertise.
Mirjeta Ramizi, the UNDP project manager, says, "The project is not only a lifeline but also a catalyst for transformation in the lives of these women. It extends its support by not only assisting with the design of an appealing product label and etiquette but also by imparting invaluable marketing lessons. These lessons empower them with the skills necessary to navigate the dynamic world of online sales, a realm they once considered unfamiliar."
Their journey has just begun. It won't be easy, but their determination, willpower, and the tailored support they receive, promise a hopeful path toward a dignified life in Devoll, their beloved home.
This joint venture demands unity, shared learning, and the invaluable bonds forged through their time together. The women are resolute striving to secure pivotal sale-purchase agreements for their products. Their vision spans far with aspirations of partnerships with renowned restaurants, and a diverse array of customers.
Their goal? Expanding their businesses to offer high-quality products while upholding cherished traditions and the essence of local culture.
As these ten women continue their journey, they breathe new life into the traditions of trahana and petka, exemplifying the power of resilience and the enduring spirit of community.
Another facet of this group has embarked on an equally amazing journey: the production of soap from olive oil, creating an array of sizes and shapes.
Their journey has just begun. It won't be easy, but their determination, willpower, and the tailored support they receive, promise a hopeful path toward a dignified life in Devoll, their beloved home.
Explore more
