The Republic of Kosovo remains committed to advancing its civil emergency architecture by investing in logistical capacities, modern technology, and professional capacity building. This is being pursued through the TAFF 1 and TAFF 2 projects.
This was stated by the Acting Minister of Internal Affairs, Xhelal Sveçla, at the one-day workshop organized by the Emergency Management Agency of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, supported by the European Commission and with the assistance of the World Bank and the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR).
The workshop addressed topics such as improving the understanding of disaster risks, impact-based forecasting and early warning, as well as advancing national preparedness for risk management in crises and wildfires in Kosovo.
Acting Minister of Internal Affairs, Xhelal Sveçla, emphasized that the TAFF 1 and TAFF 2 projects contribute to building capacities for risk management and disaster response.
“The Republic of Kosovo remains committed to advancing its civil emergency architecture by investing in logistical capacities, modern technology, professional capacity building, and strengthening inter-institutional cooperation. As a government, we are committed to strengthening coordination between the central and local levels, because effective disaster response starts from the community, from citizens. This integrated approach strengthens inter-institutional cooperation and extends support from risk awareness to full operational readiness. These strategic initiatives make an important contribution to building Kosovo’s capacities in risk management and disaster response. National preparedness forms the foundation of any state; it is a policy that affects the welfare, security, and sustainable development of the country. It is an investment in protecting lives, the environment, and the economy. Kosovo is committed to creating a sustainable system,” he said.
The Director of the Emergency Management Agency, Genc Metaj, stated that the two projects, TAFF 1 and 2, mark a step forward in modernizing the country’s emergency system in line with European standards.
“They mark a step forward in modernizing and harmonizing our systems with European standards, as well as in improving disaster risk management. Through these projects, we are advancing the professional capacities of institutions at the central and local levels, improving planning, coordination, and harmonization with EU standards and the European civil protection mechanism, as well as modernizing the warning system. These projects are extremely important for our country, enabling not only an increase in knowledge but also the development of best and sustainable practices on the ground,” Metaj stated.
The TAFF 1 and TAFF 2 projects are funded by the European Commission – DG ECHO and implemented by the World Bank in cooperation with the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR).
