Ugljevik hosted the 15th traditional Plum, Fruit Brandy and Honey Fair, bringing together 91 exhibitors and attracting a large number of visitors.
The
opening ceremony was attended by Republika Srpska Minister of Agriculture,
Forestry and Water Management Anđelka Kuzmić, who stressed that the Government
of Republika Srpska and the relevant ministry remain strongly committed to
supporting fruit growing, beekeeping and other branches of agriculture amid
climate change and an increasingly uncertain regional market.
Kuzmić
noted that more than BAM 9.3 million in agricultural incentives had been
directly allocated to the Ugljevik municipality over the past four years.
According to her, this demonstrates that the local community is home to
hardworking farmers with concrete production and that they are making effective
use of Republika Srpska Government support to improve their farms and
households.
The fair also highlighted the Podmajevički region's reputation for high-quality plums and honey. Fruit growing in the area has been steadily developing thanks to the efforts of local producers and systematic support from both local and entity-level institutions.
“Plums
in this area are not just an agricultural product, but a symbol of tradition
and work passed down from generation to generation. This event brings together
our people and guests from all over Republika Srpska, confirming its
importance,” Kuzmić said.
Following
the official opening at the town square, visitors had the opportunity to
explore exhibition stands and discover the products offered by local producers,
agricultural households, entrepreneurs and exhibitors.
A
special part of the 15th edition of the fair was dedicated to fruit brandy
producers, who presented their products in the banquet hall of the Atlas Hotel.
Awards were also presented for the highest-quality fruit brandies and honey.
In
addition to the exhibition and competition programme, the organisers prepared a
rich cultural, artistic and entertainment programme, adding to the festive
atmosphere of one of Ugljevik's traditional agricultural events.