The Digital Agriculture and Rural Transformation (DART) programme in Albania reached a significant milestone on 29 July 2025, when government officials and UN partners convened at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to review progress and set priorities for the next phase. The meeting was co-chaired by Minister Anila Denaj and UNDP Resident Representative Randi Davis, reflecting a shared commitment to modernize Albania’s agriculture sector and reduce rural–urban disparities through digital innovation. Minister Denaj emphasized that the programme goes beyond technology, focusing on empowering farmers, youth, and public servants to lead the country’s digital transition in line with the Agriculture 2030 vision.
Implemented by FAO, ILO, and ITU in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the programme supports the development of a national Digital Agriculture Strategy, upgrades to the Albanian Farmers’ Portal, and efforts to strengthen digital skills across the agriculture sector, aligning with Albania’s EU integration goals. During the meeting, the Steering Committee reviewed the nationwide farmer survey and policy analysis that inform the Digital Agriculture Strategy, and discussed plans to modernize the Farmers’ Portal with features such as market information, advisory services, and e-learning modules. Collaboration with vocational education and training providers was also highlighted to enhance digital literacy and career opportunities for young people in agriculture.
UNDP Resident Representative Randi Davis stressed that the digital transformation of rural Albania requires coordinated efforts across government and society, ensuring that no farmer is left behind. Looking ahead, the DART programme will focus on operationalizing inter-institutional working groups, advancing the Farmers’ Portal through co-design and development, expanding training opportunities, and strengthening coordination with municipalities to bring digital tools and services closer to rural communities. This milestone marks an important step toward a more inclusive, innovative, and digitally empowered agricultural sector in Albania.
