TIRANA, January 28 – The Local Government Academy, the AFMIS system, and the creation of a unique public services portal will serve as the three main pillars for strengthening municipalities in 2026. Minister of State for Local Government, Ervin Demo, presented these initiatives during a press conference.

According to Demo, the Local Government Academy marks a historic step. For the first time, municipalities will have a dedicated structure focused on their specific needs. In addition, he said the Academy will receive joint funding, with municipalities covering 50% of costs and the central government providing the remaining 50%. This arrangement ensures direct institutional ownership by the municipalities.

Demo explained that the Academy will serve as a platform to share best practices, strengthen capacities, and develop sustainable models for local development. Moreover, he noted that the first training sessions are scheduled to start within the first ten days of February. He also confirmed that the legal framework and organizational structure are already approved.

The minister highlighted that the Academy allows municipalities to exchange experiences and consolidate successful approaches. At the same time, he added that it provides a sustainable tool for local authorities and partner organizations.

Meanwhile, the AFMIS system, developed in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance, will enable municipalities to measure performance indicators more accurately. Demo emphasized that AFMIS goes beyond financial management. In addition, he said the system will help municipalities manage resources strategically, increase investments, improve service quality, and understand revenue generation more clearly.

Demo also stressed the importance of digitalizing local services through a unique portal. The portal will integrate central and local services, transform citizens’ experiences, and increase transparency. He further noted that municipalities play a key role in building a sustainable digital platform.

Earlier, Parliament approved a normative act that allocated 1.2 billion lek to municipalities. Demo explained that the funding targets overdue obligations and strengthens financial stability. As a result, he said, municipalities can guarantee long-term service quality and sustainable development.

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