EU Brings Free Wi-Fi to All Municipalities in Albania

EU Brings Free Wi-Fi to All Municipalities in Albania

The launch of the installation of free public Wi-Fi hotspots in 61 Albanian municipalities - under the EU's WiFi4WB initiative - was marked today at Europe House Tirana, in the presence of representatives of the Albanian Government, the European Union, the German Embassy, and partner organisations.

WiFi4WB is an initiative launched and funded by the European Union under the framework of the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, with a financial contribution from the German Government. It is implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). Inspired by the EU's WiFi4EU programme, which successfully connected more than 7,000 municipalities across Europe, WiFi4WB will, establish up to 500 public Wi-Fi hotspots across the region by next spring. In Albania, each municipality has nominated a central public space - such as a park, library, square, or cultural venue - where citizens and visitors will soon enjoy free, reliable internet access.

Speaking at the ceremony, the EU Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato, underlined that today's event represents another important achievement under the EU Growth Plan, strengthening digital connectivity across the Western Balkans. "The Growth Plan is delivering. This project is not only about technology and access - it is about empowering communities, enhancing opportunities, and integrating the region into the EU Digital Single Market. Ultimately, like all other initiatives under the Growth Plan, it is about accelerating Albania's EU accession process and enabling the citizens of Albania and the region to feel the benefits of EU integration even before accession," said Ambassador Gonzato.

The German Ambassador to Albania, Karl Bergner, reaffirmed Germany's commitment to supporting regional cooperation and digital transformation. "Germany remains a steadfast partner of Albania and the Western Balkans on their path towards EU integration and sustainable development. Digitalisation is a cornerstone of Europe's growth and resilience. We will keep on supporting initiatives like this one and thank our partners for their engagement," stated Ambassador Bergner.

The Minister of State for Local Government, Mr. Ervin Demo, pointed to the value of strong municipal engagement: "It gives our municipalities and communities the opportunity to provide free and high-quality internet access in public spaces - squares, parks, libraries, schools. It is not only an investment in modernising public services, but also in digital equality, creating better conditions for young people, small businesses, and citizens who want to be active participants in the digital economy." noted Mr. Demo.

Underlining Albania's dedication to modernization and digital transformation, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Energy, Ms. Enkelejda Muçaj emphasized the paramount importance of providing affordable and equal access to digital connectivity for all people. "Digital connection and free WiFi will empower the users to benefit more from the digital transformation and to access and use online services freely. Digital connectivity is an indisputable tool for development of our societies, integration transformation of our economies, communication of our culture and values and paving the way for a future where prosperity, safety and the security of our nations encompasses our will to grow stronger together," she said.

Following a competitive procurement process, Vodafone Albania was selected to install and maintain the technical infrastructure and ensure high-quality internet service nationwide. During the ceremony, the contract between GIZ and Vodafone Albania, as the service provider, was officially signed.

The signatories of the contract, Vodafone Albania CEO Mr. Balázs Révész and GIZ Albania Director Dr. Sonja Kurz, underlined their commitment to successfully implementing the project.

WiFi4WB is part of the EU4Digital programme, launched in September 2024 and running until August 2027, with a total EU contribution of €15 million and co-funding by the German Government of €1.5 million. By investing in digital infrastructure and trust services, the EU is helping integrate the Western Balkans into the EU Digital Single Market, in line with the objectives of the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans.

This initiative marks a major step in Albania's digital development and a regional success story of connectivity, inclusion, and cooperation.