The Minister of State for Local Government, Arbjan Mazniku, stated that this project aims to strengthen the capacities of local government to provide more transparent, inclusive, and higher-quality services for citizens.

Mazniku expressed that with this project, another important step is taken towards European integration, with 70% of legislation implemented at the local level.

The meeting was held with the participation of representatives from both national and international institutions, including the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Albania, officials from MEKI, AKSHI, ASPA, SHKBSH, SHKQSH, delegates from the municipalities of Elbasan, Kavajë, and Korçë, along with representatives of international projects centered on local governance.

Minister Mazniku stated that the project seeks to foster the development of a democratic and effective society by empowering local institutions and building local-level capacities, prioritizing the delivery of improved services to citizens, particularly women and the most vulnerable segments of society.

The project will be implemented through the training of trainers, the organization of 24 seminars across municipalities throughout the country, and the provision of practical support in four pilot municipalities: Shkodër, Kavajë, Elbasan, and Korçë. The initiative primarily targets areas such as digital governance, local economic development, integrity and anti-corruption efforts, as well as gender equality and social inclusion, according to the statement from the Agency for the Support of Local Self-Government.

The project is implemented by a consortium consisting of the The Hague Academy for Local Governance, Helvetas Albania, and VNG International, funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, and will run until the end of 2028.

It aims to promote sustainable improvements in local government administration and to increase citizens’ trust in public institutions.

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