NAPA and PONT: Tracking Progress and Charting the Path Forward

Albania is working hard to improve the management of its protected areas and achieve the objectives outlined in their Management Plans. These efforts are supported through a partnership between PONT and the National Agency for Protected Areas (NAPA). As part of this, a thorough mid-year review of the grant programme was conducted. During this review, park managers, rangers, and representatives from both organisations came together to assess progress, mark achievements, and plan for the future. This review focused on how well the current grants are meeting their goals and what actions are needed in the months ahead.

Focused Conservation Efforts in target areas

In Shebenik National Park, efforts are ramping up around monitoring important species and involving local communities to foster shared responsibility. Discussions highlighted the need to improve infrastructure for visitors and ranger patrols, vital for effective protection.

The Albanian Alps National Park, renowned for its rugged beauty and rich biodiversity, benefits from collaboration with various NGOs active in the region. These partnerships support habitat restoration, staff training, and the implementation of data-driven conservation strategies. Such initiatives underline the importance of coordinated management among different authorities to effectively preserve this unique environment.

Korab-Koritnik Nature Park, a vital area both ecologically and socio-economically, is expanding biodiversity inventories, and promoting sustainable resource use. Support for community-led management and environmental education is growing, encouraging local people to become active stewards of their natural surroundings.

In Prespa National Park and the Pogradec Protected Landscape, progress driven by PONT’s strategic funding is evident. Key stakeholders emphasised the importance of strategic planning, stakeholder involvement, and robust institutional coordination to ensure lasting conservation success. Addressing climate change was identified as a pressing issue, and the collection of reliable data would support the development of strategies and interventions based on sound evidence.

Gaining Insights and Looking Ahead

The mid-year review provided valuable insights into ongoing activities under the 2025 operational plan. Participants discussed how PONT supported projects are influencing progress, addressed logistical and capacity challenges, and identified opportunities for better collaboration with NGOs and local communities.

The review fostered open discussions, allowing stakeholders to share ideas, set new priorities, and explore fresh initiatives for the months ahead.

A Shared Vision for Long-Term Conservation

Both NAPA and PONT are committed to building on current achievements by embracing innovative management approaches, strengthening partnerships with local NGOs, and further developing capacity. They underline the importance of strategic planning and stakeholder engagement to protect Albania’s natural heritage for future generations.

These joint efforts and strategic conversations are creating a good base for inclusive and effective conservation in key areas. They set the stage for targeted actions in the second half of the year and reflect the shared vision of NAPA, RAPAs, and PONT for a resilient and well-managed protected area system in Albania.

By: NAPA (National Agency for Protected Areas)