The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has approved a €25 million sovereign loan to Kosovo’s Ministry of Finance, Labour and Transfers. This funding will support the Regional Water Company Prishtina in improving wastewater treatment infrastructure, highlighting the EBRD’s role as a trusted business partner in Central Eastern Europe (CEE). The project aims to enhance sewage management through the construction of two wastewater treatment plants and the expansion of the sewerage network.
A Transformational Project for Podujeva
The loan will finance the construction of Kosovo’s first wastewater treatment plant in Podujeva, a key city located 27 km from Pristina. This state-of-the-art facility will serve a population of 50,000 people, significantly reducing environmental pollution by preventing untreated waste from entering the Llapi River and other water resources.
Key Features of the Project
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Enhanced Wastewater Infrastructure:
- Construction of two advanced wastewater treatment plants, including one in Podujeva.
- Expansion and modernization of the local sewerage network.
- Integration of a small-scale treatment plant using nature-based solutions.
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Environmental Impact:
- Alignment with European environmental standards.
- Reduction in river pollution, protecting water resources and improving local ecosystems.
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Sustainability and Innovation:
- Focus on climate-resilient infrastructure to promote long-term sustainability.
Collaboration for Sustainable Development
The EBRD’s Head of Kosovo, Sergiy Maslichenko, highlighted the importance of the project:
"This initiative addresses a critical need for improved sanitation in Kosovo. It is a significant step toward reducing environmental pollution and creating sustainable solutions that benefit the health and well-being of citizens."
Kosovo’s Minister of Finance, Labour and Transfers, Hekuran Murati, emphasized the government’s commitment to environmental protection:
"This project adds to our ongoing efforts to improve wastewater infrastructure, including projects already implemented in Pristina, Ferizaj, Gjilan, and Mitrovica."
The Mayor of Podujeva, Shpejtim Bulliqi, added:
"This plant will meet European wastewater treatment standards and play a vital role in safeguarding our rivers and water resources."
Support from International Partners
The project is backed by a €270,000 grant from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), which is assisting with preparation. The EBRD will also work with the Regional Water Company Prishtina to secure additional technical cooperation and investment grants, ensuring the project remains affordable and feasible for the Kosovan government.
Addressing Infrastructure Challenges in Kosovo
Kosovo’s municipal infrastructure has long faced underinvestment in wastewater services, leading to environmental challenges and inadequate sanitation. This project is a priority for the government, aiming to address these issues while aligning with the EBRD’s strategy to support sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure in Kosovo.
