 The Agroplod co-operative was set up in 1999. The
co-operative has approximately 800 members from as far
away as Trebinje or Mostar. President, Enver Zele, is very
proud of the multi-ethnicity of their membership, which
numbers approximately 800.Agroplod initially received
assistance from UMCOR which enabled them to set up a
distillery for making essential oils from herbs, still a
specialisation of many Agroplod members. They also
received technical assistance, training and market support
from UMCOR. They have recently been accepted as an UMCOR
CEAS partner for the production of medicinal herbs and
soft fruits.
 Agroplod provides members with a variety of training,
advice and services including land cultivation techniques,
education and training in vegetable production and
provision of necessary raw materials for farmers to name
but a few. Members can borrow or buy equipment from the
cooperative.
Within the area of former-Yugoslavia, Agroplod is the
first co-operative to advocate for the production of
organic crops and has achieved official certification in
this area from both Sweden and Italy. Agroplod took part
in Biofach 2004, a specialised trade fair for the
international market in organic produce (go to
www.biofach.de
for more information).
 The production of medicinal herbs for oils and teas is
a major focus within the co-operative. Staff and members
are engaged in testing and experimentation of suitable
herbs and are looking at ways to improve yields. Agroplod
projects range from medicinal herb production and
vegetable production to chicken and egg production and
more.
Updated June 2004. |
