Enver Kerceli

Republika e Kosovës Republika Kosovo – Republic of Kosovo Qeveria – Vlada – Government Ministria e Bujqësisë, Pylltarisë dhe Zhvillimit Rural Ministarstvo Poljoprivrede, Sumarstva i Ruralnog Razvoja Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development Project Proposal for Feasibility Study: Rehabilitation of Drini i Bardhe Peja Area and Micro Accumulation Projects in Viti & Klokot I. Background Kosovo’s agricultural sector remains a critical driver of rural development, food security, and economic growth. However, the sector faces increasing challenges related to water management and irrigation, particularly in light of climate change and water scarcity. Efficient irrigation systems are essential to ensure agricultural productivity, especially in key regions such as Peja, Viti, and Klokot. Kosovo’s Irrigation Master Plan was developed as a comprehensive strategy to address the country’s growing challenges related to water management in agriculture. The plan identifies priority areas for improving irrigation systems to enhance agricultural productivity, conserve water resources, and ensure sustainability amidst climate change pressures. It outlines the need for modernized infrastructure, energy-efficient solutions, and environmentally friendly practices to support the agricultural sector, which is a critical component of Kosovo's rural economy. Two of the key priority projects identified in the master plan include: 1. Rehabilitation of irrigation scheme Kanali Jugor i Pejës This scheme was built in the 60’s and is managed by Drini I Bardhe Irrigation Company. It is situated in the west part of Kosovo, near the city of Peja. For this irrigation scheme, a prefeasibility study was done in the framework of the Master Plan with two possible scenarios. First scenario deals only with upgrading outdated irrigation infrastructure by replacement and improvement of the existing pipes with the aim to decrease water losses, and prevent water pollution in the urbanized areas. This scenario covers about 1500 ha. The second scenario with the eventual expansion up to 3000 ha including possible expansion of the intake structure and pumping stations. 2. Micro Accumulation Projects in Viti and Klokot – Aimed at developing smallscale water reservoirs to provide reliable irrigation while preserving natural resources. II. Objectives The proposed feasibility study seeks to assess the technical, economic, environmental, and social viability of these two irrigation projects: 1. Rehabilitation of Drini i Bardhe - Peja Area: − Evaluate the existing irrigation infrastructure and propose necessary improvements. − Determine the scope and scale of rehabilitation required. − Detailed design and engineering cost estimates − Estimate the potential impact on agricultural productivity and local communities. 2. Micro Accumulation Projects in Viti & Klokot: − Identify optimal locations for small reservoirs. − Assess water demand and availability to ensure sustainable management. − Detailed design and engineering cost estimates for the dam and irrigation network. − Evaluate the long-term environmental and social benefits of the microaccumulation systems. III. Expected Outcomes The feasibility study will result in: • A detailed technical and engineering design for both the rehabilitation of the Drini i Bardhe irrigation system and the proposed micro-accumulation systems. • A comprehensive cost-benefit analysis demonstrating the economic justification for the projects. • Environmental and social impact assessments, ensuring alignment with international standards. • The projected impact analysis on agricultural output and irrigation needs. • Recommendations for phased implementation strategies. IV. Impact The implementation of these projects, as identified in the feasibility study, is expected to: • Enhance the agricultural productivity in the Peja, Viti, and Klokot regions by ensuring reliable irrigation. • Contribute to rural development by improving farmers’ income and food security. • Promote water conservation and sustainable usage in line with Kosovo’s environmental strategies. • Strengthen the region’s resilience to climate change by providing consistent water supplies. V. Financing and Collaboration We seek AFD’s support in financing the feasibility study, which will be the first critical step toward the realization of these projects. AFD’s collaboration will be invaluable in ensuring the sustainability and successful implementation of the proposed irrigation developments, contributing to Kosovo's agricultural development goals. Budget Proposal for Feasibility Study Below is a detailed breakdown of the budget for the feasibility study, which covers technical assessments, field studies, design, engineering estimates, and stakeholder engagement for the two irrigation projects. Total Approximate Budget: €1,000,000 The budget includes all necessary technical assessments, design work, and impact studies required to determine the feasibility of both projects, and stakeholder engagement and consultations of local communities and authorities. VI. Conclusion We believe that the proposed feasibility study will pave the way for impactful irrigation projects that will significantly contribute to the socio-economic well-being of the target regions in Kosovo. We look forward to partnering with AFD to bring these transformative projects to completion.