The traditional Rogatica Potato and Romanija Skorup-Kajmak Day was held in East Novo Sarajevo, bringing together 30 exhibitors showcasing agricultural products with protected geographical origin.
The event highlighted two of the region’s best-known traditional specialties: Rogatica potatoes and Romanija skorup-kajmak, a rich, creamy dairy product made using traditional methods.
Potato producers face lower yields but maintain quality
For local agricultural producers, participating in the festival provides an important opportunity to present and sell their products directly to customers.
Although drought and rising fuel prices have significantly affected this year’s harvest, with potato yields reportedly reduced by half, producers say the quality of their crops remains high.
Despite the challenges facing agriculture, exhibitors emphasized that attending the festival continues to be worthwhile.
Romanija kajmak protected in 29 countries
Producers from the Romanija region also participated in the event, presenting their traditional skorup-kajmak.
A group of 28 dedicated women has been producing this regional specialty since 2014, preserving traditional preparation methods and promoting its distinctive qualities.
Romanija skorup-kajmak enjoys geographical protection in 29 countries worldwide.
Nada Maksimović, President of the Romanija Skorup-Kajmak Association, said the festival has become an important opportunity for producers to connect with customers.
“We have been attending this fair for six years. People recognize our products, come to taste them, and we sell everything we bring. That is a great help to us,” Maksimović said.
East Novo Sarajevo supports local agriculture
The municipality of East Novo Sarajevo has hosted the festival for six consecutive years, with the aim of supporting agricultural producers from neighboring municipalities and promoting regional specialties.
Mayor Jovan Katić emphasized the importance of helping local producers reach customers and increase awareness of their products.
“We want people to hear about these producers, make it easier for them to sell their products, and provide residents of East Novo Sarajevo with the quality potatoes and kajmak they are accustomed to buying,” Katić stated.
Visitors praise quality and traditional flavors
Visitors expressed satisfaction with both the quality and prices of the products on offer.
Many emphasized the importance of supporting domestic agricultural producers, particularly at a time when farming faces increasing economic and environmental challenges.
The festival once again demonstrated the value of preserving traditional food production and strengthening connections between local farmers and consumers.
The combination of high-quality regional specialties, dedicated producers and enthusiastic visitors reinforced the message that locally produced food remains an important part of the region’s cultural and gastronomic heritage.
Source: RTRS
