In the heart of the small but nature-rich town of Zavidovići, on the slopes of the Klek mountain, Alen Jusupović, a young farmer with big dreams, turned a student project into a successful family business. Thanks to support of the European union and German government through the EU4Business Recovery project, Alen´s dream came true in this beautiful mountain region. Starting with just one donkey, today his farm cares for 80 chipped donkeys in accordance with the highest standards.

This inspiring story began when Alen's student project, which won first prize and brought them $4,000, became the basis for the development of this family business. The first income came from riding donkeys, after which Alen and his family started producing donkey milk and cosmetics. Their plans include the development of tourism in this beautiful location.

We asked Alen what his proposal is for expansion and additional offerings on the farm. "It is crucial to create accommodation facilities," says Alen, "because we want our guests to enjoy fresh donkey milk, which has proven to be a good dietary supplement, especially for lung patients."

However, Alen admits that there are challenges in their business. "Weather conditions often play a role, and stock farming is specific because food prices often change."

As for tourism, Alen believes that the potential of this area has not been fully exploited. "I think only 10% of the potential is used," he says. Speaking about the sustainability of projects, he points out that support after implementation is crucial, because it often happens that projects are shut down.

The question about the Eu4Business Recovery project of Sustainable Tourism with GIZ as an implementer brought a smile to Alen's face. "This is what we've been missing," he says. "It is an excellent opportunity to develop potential, and with little money we can achieve a lot. But there must be continuity. Advice is also very important for the realization of projects."

When asked about the tourist potential of Zavidovići, Alen points out the sources of Suha, a villa from the Austro-Hungarian era, the stone spheres, the donkey farm, bicycle paths, three rivers, rafting, fishing and hunting as key attractions. "Tourism can develop throughout the year," he says. "All four seasons can be used, even in winter for skiing."

The donkey farm does not offer only donkey milk. Alen and his family also offer donkey milk cosmetics, rides on their four trained horses, and they will soon open two bungalows to accommodate tourists or those with lung problems. Also, the Klek mountain near the farm has the potential for an "air spa".

The "EU4BusinessRecovery" project, co-financed by the European Union and the German government, aims to provide support to Bosnia and Herzegovina in mitigating the consequences caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The project with a focus on the export-oriented and tourism sector is implemented by GIZ, encouraging the creation of new jobs and the growth and development of companies, which makes BiH more competitive on the European Union market.