On 16 October, “Mehe Uka” Square in Mitrovica became a space of solidarity for women and girls affected by breast cancer. Through the humanitarian initiative “Cooking and Supporting,” organised by the Centre Education and Community Development Friends (CECD Friends), a member organisation of the Kosovo Women’s Network (KWN), citizens, activists and volunteers came together to provide tangible support. The initiative was led by CECD Friends Director Valbone Sadiku. 

Through the sale of prepared food and handmade products, as well as donations, participants helped raise funds for women who, alongside health and emotional challenges, also face financial difficulties during treatment. Under the slogan “Heroines of Mitrovica,” the initiative highlighted the importance of solidarity and continued support for women living with this disease. 

Pink October raises awareness about breast cancer, the importance of early detection, and access to screening and treatment. For women affected by breast cancer, the journey towards recovery may involve frequent travel for medical check-ups and therapy, medication costs, and the need for emotional and psychological support. Community solidarity must therefore go hand in hand with institutional responsibility to ensure access to quality, timely and affordable healthcare services. 

Beyond humanitarian activities, CECD Friends works to raise awareness among women and girls about their health rights, document violations of these rights, and empower them to bring their concerns to the attention of the responsible institutions. 

Through meetings with municipal officials and advocacy efforts, the organisation has called for improved access to screening, therapy and oncology services in Mitrovica. These efforts have also contributed to the introduction of financial assistance by the Municipal Directorate of Health, ranging from €200 to €500, for women affected by cancer. This assistance helps cover medication costs and travel expenses for treatment in Prishtina. 

KWN also joined the activity, reaffirming the importance of collective action to advance women’s rights and well-being. 

Through “Cooking and Supporting,” CECD Friends and the local community demonstrated how solidarity can translate into tangible support. However, this support must continue throughout the year and be accompanied by institutional measures that ensure all women can access quality and affordable healthcare. 

You can learn more about the work of CECD Friends on its official Facebook page. 

If you would like to support CECD Friends through a donation, you can contact the organization directly or donate through our fiscal sponsor, the East-West Management Institute (EWMI). 

Donations can be made online through EWMI