| In the village Guri Zi, just a few miles out of the northern capital of Shkoder, locals used mud paths as roads to carry out their day duties.
The village has a population of 2,700. With no proper road running through it even a short walk to the local cemetery was a daunting task.
In October 2006 Islamic Relief built a 1 km long road through the village helping to transform Guri Zi.
Mother-of-three Vera Rustemi, 47, remembers the days before the newly built road.
“It was very difficult before the road, we had to pass the stream. It was difficult because of the mud and filth.
“We used to pass the stream to get to the main road to get to the next village, but now we can go straight.”
Vera now uses the road to carry hay for her animals and to carry her home-grown onions which she sells. The road has also given Guri Zi easy access to the next village of Jujban.
“I sell onions that I grow and the road helps me to transport them – it helps in every way of life. “It has really made the children’s life easier and has helped relationships between the two villages because before we were separated,” said Vera.
Bros Marku, 49, head of the Guri Zi village said, “Before it was only a path with mud and people could only walk on foot. The community has no money so Islamic Relief has come and supported us. We can now use cars easily as well as horses and carts. It helps the people access the land and open businesses. It helps the agriculture and even helps the children who do not have to pass on the main road anymore. On behalf of the community I would like to thank Islamic Relief.”
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