Albania secures $3M WB grant for tourism ecosystem development
The World Bank, through the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), will provide a $3 million grant to support the preparation of a project for the integrated development of the tourism ecosystem in Albania.
Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sports of Albania Blendi Gonxhja announced today that the government has approved the decision regarding the grant agreement with the World Bank, CE Report quotes ATA.
The key innovation is a joint plan linking tourist destinations with their specific needs regarding infrastructure, services, professional skills and management.
According to Gonxhja, this new approach aims to ensure that future investments complement one another and generate benefits for a larger number of communities.
“The initiative aims to better connect the coast with inland areas. There will be explored the opportunities to link the most popular destinations with other natural and cultural attractions, encouraging visitors to explore more of Albania. Also, tourism beyond the summer season is being encouraged, along with opportunities for an even more diverse offering that attracts visitors throughout the year and creates prospects for more sustainable economic activity, thereby increasing benefits for the local economy,” emphasized Gonxhja.
The minister stated that, “Attention will focus on the quality of tourism product and services, with the aim of generating higher revenues and creating higher-quality employment.”
Regarding the use of funds, Gonxhja noted that, “This grant will finance the drafting of the tourism plan, the identification of priority interventions and studies to assess their feasibility, costs and impacts on the environment and local residents.” It will also cover the preparation of the documentation and institutional capacities required for the project’s design and its subsequent implementation.”
The activities are set to be implemented through the Albanian Development Fund, based on an implementation agreement with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sports.
“In line with our 2024–2030 national tourism strategy and together with our World Bank partners, we are targeting investments that improve tourist destinations, generate prosperity for communities and preserve and promote Albania’s natural and cultural assets,” said Gonxhja.
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