Behind the project "Strength of Tradition – Strength of Community" are women who, every day and often away from the public eye, preserve one of eastern Herzegovina's most distinctive traditional products - Gacko kajmak. For years, their work was rooted in family tradition, but through the European Union-funded ReLOaD3 project, it has gained greater recognition, support and new opportunities for growth.

"The support we received through ReLOaD3 means a great deal to us—it has opened a window to the world. Thanks to ReLOaD3, we have modernized our production process and been given the opportunity to present our Association and our products to a wider audience," explains Dragana Milović, President of the Gacko Kajmak Producers' Association, which developed the project "The Strength of Tradition – The Strength of Community."

Thanks to the project, the Association's members have benefited from improved working conditions, opportunities to participate in training workshops, network and exchange experiences, and jointly showcase their products at fairs and public events.

The project also provided 20 cheese presses to improve the standardization of production, ensure more consistent product quality, and enhance food safety. In addition, 20 sets of packaging materials were procured, creating the conditions for standardized and hygienically safe product packaging.

Perhaps most importantly, the women participating in the project have gained greater self-confidence and a stronger sense that their work is valued, recognized and supported. At the same time, the project has contributed to their economic empowerment, particularly given that most members of the Association are unemployed.

Daliborka has been producing kajmak for more than ten years. What began as small batches for her family and personal use has grown into her primary occupation and sole source of income.

"You start by making it for yourself and your family. Then other customers come along, and when you see that it brings results, you keep going," says Daliborka. "What makes me happiest is when customers recognize the quality of the product. That's why it's so important to maintain consistent quality and keep customers satisfied. That's what motivates me."

Daliborka took part in every workshop organized by the Association with the support of ReLOaD3. The workshops covered topics such as good hygiene practices in traditional food production, traceability of traditional products, proper product labelling and declaration, as well as leadership and the use of social media for promotion.

"All of these workshops and training sessions have truly empowered me. I learned so much, and I was extremely satisfied with every one of them. They have opened the door to new opportunities," she says.

The Gacko Kajmak Producers' Association had previously received support through an earlier phase of the programme, ReLOaD2, also funded by the European Union, with the project "Preparing Producers for the Branding Process of Gacko Kajmak."

"It was the very first project we implemented. It became a springboard that enabled us to secure legal protection for our product," recalls Dragana.

As a result, "Gatački kajmak iz mješine" (Gacko kajmak from sheepskin) was registered in Bosnia and Herzegovina in accordance with the Rulebook on Quality Systems for Food Products.

Gacko kajmak is unique to the Gacko area because of both the ingredients used and its traditional production method. It is made primarily from the milk of the indigenous Gacko cattle breed, which is known for its high milk fat content and distinctive flavour.

"The kajmak is first drained in wooden vats and then transferred into sheepskin sacks to mature. During this process, it develops the distinctive characteristics that make it a unique indigenous product of the Municipality of Gacko. This method of production is not found in other parts of the country," explains Dragana.

The project has not only supported kajmak producers but has also changed the way the local community views traditional food production. Today, Gacko kajmak stands as a symbol of local identity, solidarity and the development potential of rural communities.

"When women come together, when institutions and donors provide support, and when tradition is combined with a modern approach, lasting change happens. That is why we believe the project's greatest achievement is a stronger community - one that preserves its heritage, supports its people and looks to the future with greater optimism," says Dragana.

And the next step? European Union!

The process of protecting Gacko kajmak in European Union market is currently underway. Once registered, this unique product will gain access to new markets, increase its recognition and further strengthen the position of local producers. For the women who have spent years preserving traditional production methods, this would be a powerful affirmation that the knowledge passed down through generations has value far beyond the borders of Gacko.

"ReLOaD has empowered us. It has given us the momentum to move forward. What means the most to us is that someone has recognized our hard work and dedication," Daliborka concludes.

Project "Strength of Tradition – Strength of Community"  is supported through Regional programme for local democracy in the Western Balkans 3 - ReLOaD3, that is financed by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme in cooperation with 14 municipalities and cities including Municipality of Gacko. 

Watch promo video about Gacko kajmak.