SNV Albania successfully participated in the International Conference and Exhibition “Tourism and Real Estate in Albania” which was held from 7-8 October at the Palace of Congresses in Tirana. The conference, organized by the Foreign Investors Association in Albania with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Public Works, National Tourism Agency, SNV, GTZ and USAID was the first of its kind in Albania. About 100 delegates from Albania and abroad participated in the conference and visited the exhibition stands displaying investment opportunities in real estate, infrastructure, community projects and tourism.

SNV presentation at the conference focused on sustainable tourism investment opportunities identified through participatory processes in two regions of Albania: Elbasan and Korca. A number of delegations showed interest to know more about this approach including the Municipalities of Sarande and Berat. Private sector investors were also interested in the specific investment opportunities highlighted in the presentation  - Korce Sports Planet Complex and revitalisation of the artisans bazaar in Elbasani castle.    

SNV’ exhibition was visited by more than 100 visitors, half of which showed concrete interest in the range of investment opportunities identified in the Tourism Action Plans, a process initiated and facilitated by SNV in two regions and seven communes. SNV has just published a Guidance Manual on Tourism Strategic Action Planning Process for local and regional destinations. The aim of the Manual is to assist local governments units who wish to develop tourism in their area in a sustainable and participatory way.

For further information, please contact Allison Rossetto, SNV senior Tourism advisor at arossetto@snvworld.org