Preparations for the wildfire season, Minister Nufi: “Albania better prepared and more coordinated than ever to respond to civil emergencies”

Published: Monday, 27 July 2026 18:13

An event presenting the capabilities and preparedness of civil protection structures for the wildfire season was held at Farka Air Base. Attendees included Prime Minister Edi Rama; minister of Defence Ermal Nufi; Minister of the Interior Besfort Lamallari; Minister of State for Local Government Ervin Demo; Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Arben Kingji; prefects; mayors; personnel; and other representatives.

In his address, Minister of Defence Ermal Nufi emphasised that: “Albania is now better prepared and more coordinated than ever to respond to civil emergencies", noting that this has been the best year in terms of wildfire management.

“Today, I am proud to say that this could be one of the best years in terms of wildfire management. This is not due to luck or coincidence, but to the exceptional coordination and commitment of all the structures responsible for managing emergency situations.” Minister Nufi stated.

Minister Nufi also highlighted the challenges of last year’s wildfire season, recalling that 2025 was a significant test for civil protection structures, marked by a high-intensity situation affecting a wide geographical area.

“The best evidence is that when institutions work together and when professionalism and responsibility are placed above every other interest, we are capable of successfully responding to even the most difficult challenges. I extend my sincere gratitude to every member of personnel and employee who contributes to this sector." Minister Nufi underlined.

According to Minister Nufi, particular attention has been devoted to strengthening local government capacities. He noted that funding for civil protection has increased from approximately ALL 800 million in 2025 to more than ALL 1 billion planned for 2026. This represents tangible evidence of the Albanian Government’s commitment to strengthening capacities where emergencies are first addressed, within local communities and municipalities.

Concluding his remarks, Minister Nufi thanked all the structures engaged in responding to civil emergencies, including municipal firefighters, prefects, mayors, the National Civil Protection Agency and the Armed Forces, as well as the personnel who intervene every day on the ground and from the air to extinguish wildfires.