Qamile Eshtrefi maintains traditional life in rural Kërçova

Qamile Eshtrefi, a 77-year-old resident of Prapadishti in the Kërçova region, lives a solitary life characterized by traditional customs and limited modern resources. Living alone since her parents passed away 26 years ago, she manages all household tasks manually, including washing clothes by hand and growing her own food such as tomatoes, peas, and corn.

Eshtrefi is one of the few elderly residents in her village who continues to wear traditional clothing, specifically dimija. The village has seen significant depopulation, with only three families remaining due to the lack of shops and transport to the city. She relies on a well in her courtyard for water and receives essential supplies from her nephew.

Despite the hardships of rural life, Eshtrefi reported that she has never taken medication in her 77 years, noting that a medical exam last year showed good health, despite some muscle fatigue from years of physical labor.