After decades as a military base, the former Prizren camp of the Kosovo Force (KFOR) has undergone a remarkable transformation. On behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and with co-financing from the Government of Kosovo, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and its local partners have converted this former Bundeswehr site into the Innovation and Training Park (ITP). Since its launch in 2019, ITP Prizren has become a major hub for innovation and business and skills development.
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Vjosa Çerkini
‘A symbol of Kosovo’s transformation’
Kosovo’s Government is focusing on innovation and digitalisation in government and the economy. In the interview, Lulëzon Jagxhiu, advisor to Kosovo’s Prime Minister Albin Kurti, discusses the role played by the Innovation and Training Park in Prizren. The transformation of the former Bundeswehr military camp into a civilian economic and educational centre is a German-Kosovar initiative.
Interview: Vjosa Çerkini
What did you think when you first saw the transformation of the Prizren military camp into the Innovation and Training Park (ITP)?
ITP symbolises Kosovo’s incredible transformation. Twenty-five years ago, our country endured a devastating war marked by loss and destruction. Today, Kosovo stands as a story of resilience and progress. Over the past four years, our GDP has grown by 52%, and foreign direct investment has surged by 143% since 2022. We are also recognised as the most democratic country in the Western Balkans, according to international indicators. The transformation of ITP – from a military camp into a cutting-edge innovation and training hub – mirrors Kosovo’s own journey.
ITP Prizren is an example of cooperation between Kosovo and Germany. Why is that the case?
In recent years, Kosovo has prioritised building a robust innovation ecosystem, and ITP is a central platform in this network. It represents a shared investment of €16 million – half funded by the Kosovar Government and half by the German Government. This collaboration has created a platform that not only strengthens Kosovo’s economy but also provides opportunities that German businesses can benefit from. Hence, ITP is a bridge between our two nations for economic cooperation and mutual growth.
Why exactly?
Kosovo has a vibrant information and communication technology (ICT) sector, with more than 2,000 companies operating in it. The vast majority export their services, especially to Western Europe and the United States. This sector has grown by nearly 300% in the last three years, making it the fastest-growing part of our economy. Many of these companies are already collaborating with German businesses. With a young population – the youngest in Europe, with an average age of 34 – Kosovo offers immense potential for further growth in the ICT sector. This creates a significant opportunity that German businesses can leverage, benefitting both economies.
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Lulëzon Jagxhiu is government chief technology officer (CTO) and responsible for coordinating digital transformation as well as cybersecurity policies and initiatives within Kosovo’s Government.
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Vjosa Çerkini
How is Kosovo’s Government advancing the digital economy?
Our government is committed to advancing Kosovo’s digital economy by investing heavily in digital infrastructure. Kosovo has the best internet connectivity in the Western Balkans, comparable with that of some of the most developed countries in Europe. As of 2024, every village in the country is connected to broadband internet. Additionally, with 65% of the country covered by 5G, Kosovo leads the Western Balkans in 5G connectivity. Beyond infrastructure, we are fostering an innovation ecosystem that connects businesses, universities and government. ITP Prizren plays a critical role as a platform where this ecosystem comes to life, driving digital transformation and economic growth.
Can ITP Prizren also make a long-term contribution to stability and development in the region?
Absolutely. ITP is a vast facility, spanning over 40 hectares and housing more than 50 buildings. Its vicinity to neighbouring countries North Macedonia, Albania and Montenegro makes it ideal for regional collaboration. The park has the potential to host initiatives that go beyond Kosovo, bringing together businesses, innovators and investors from across the region. By fostering cross-border cooperation and innovation, ITP can become a regional hub that drives economic prosperity, stability and development not just for Kosovo but for the entire Western Balkans.