“MINI FARMICA” BRINGS FAMILY TOGETHER IN NATURE

The breeding of donkeys and the production of donkey milk are becoming increasingly popular in Bosnia and Herzegovina. One such farm, called “Mini Farmica,” is nestled at the foot of Mount Motajica.

PHOTO: Agroklub

The Brusojević family—Marina and Damjan—started their small farm of donkeys and goats last year on their property located between Derventa and Srbac.

“We first bought one donkey, and when we saw how much our children enjoyed taking care of it, we got more. Now we have three jennies, one jack, and three young donkeys,” said the Brusojević family, who are raising the farm with their three children.

In addition to donkeys, the property is also home to more than 20 goats. They share that living in the countryside has always been their dream, so their children could grow up in a natural environment.

“We were lucky to have the opportunity to buy such a property and begin this journey. We now own 16 dunums of fenced land,” the hardworking family told Agroklub.

Recently, the farm has grown with the addition of two mares, two stallions, a foal, and a mule.

Marina explained that both she and her husband grew up in the countryside, which inspired them to give their children the same experience.

“Our idea was to teach our kids the importance of hard work and to help them learn to care for animals while spending more time in nature,” said Marina, who takes care of the children.

Her husband Damjan helps on the farm after work.

“Our goal is to spend as much time as possible with our children on the farm. We don’t dream about life abroad or anywhere else. I have a job, but I still find time to join Marina and the kids on the farm,” said Damjan, adding that with love and good organization, everything is possible.

“When you’re determined to work, you can achieve anything,” Marina added.

Initially, they used donkey milk for their own needs, but with the growing number of animals, they began selling it. Now it’s available in Derventa, Srbac, and beyond. Most often, it's sought out by parents of children with allergies or recurring lung infections accompanied by coughing.

“According to studies and what we’ve read, donkey milk is the closest in composition to human breast milk. It’s an excellent and healthy alternative to cow's milk. Children allergic to cow milk proteins tolerate donkey milk very well—it’s tasty, sweet, nutritious, and causes no allergic reactions,” explained the Brusojević family, who now own nine donkeys.

Donkey milk is also known to boost immunity. The recommended daily dose is 100 milliliters, and it doesn’t need to be boiled.

In addition to milk, “Mini Farmica” also offers a natural facial cream made entirely from natural ingredients and donkey milk.

“Through long-term dedication, we’ve created a high-quality product that’s already gaining recognition. The cream is effective for treating psoriasis, eczema, atopic dermatitis, open wounds, dry skin, and more,” Marina said.

She added that the cream is praised for its many benefits: deep hydration, anti-aging effects, calming sensitive skin, natural source of vitamins and minerals, acne relief, natural brightening, and more.

The family's plan is to gradually expand the farm. They already offer goat milk, cheese, and whey as part of their product line.