UNOPS and OBP Partner to Modernize and Strengthen Centralized Procurement in Albania

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and the Central Purchasing Operator (OBP) of Albania signed a cooperation agreement on 8 September 2026 to implement a six-month technical support project. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to strengthening the strategic direction and operational efficiency of Albania’s public
procurement landscape.
The signing ceremony, held at the Pyramid of Tirana, marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to modernize public procurement processes across the country.
Through this project, UNOPS will provide technical expertise to support the OBP in
achieving greater efficiency, and international standard alignment in procurement
activities.
In her remarks, Delina Ibrahimaj, Minister of Economy and Innovation, said that
the agreement will help OBP improve its processes, strengthen its capacities and
make greater use of technology, including Artificial Intelligence. “This means faster and more transparent procurement, lower costs and better use of public funds – ensuring that every lek spent delivers greater value for citizens. The next step is to integrate Artificial Intelligence into public procurement processes, with the aim of
making this a reality by autumn next year,” Minister Ibrahimaj emphasized.
Jonaid Myzyri, Administrator of the Centralized Purchasing Operator,
emphasized that the cooperation will enable OBP to integrate international good practices into its systems, modernize its processes and ensure that public funds are managed according to the highest standards of integrity, transparency and
accountability.
“This agreement represents a special moment for our cooperation with the Central
Purchasing Body,” said Sabine Kania, Head of Office, UNOPS Albania & Kosovo.
“By combining UNOPS’ global experience in project management and procurement
with the OBP’s strategic vision, we build a solid foundation for more transparent
and efficient public procurement that will ultimately benefit the people of Albania.”
Effective public procurement is fundamental to strong institutions and ensuring
that public resources deliver quality services for people,” said Ingrid Macdonald,
United Nations Resident Coordinator in Albania. “Through this partnership,
UNOPS will provide international expertise to support the Central Purchasing
Operator in strengthening institutional capacity and performance, in line with
international standards and good practices. This initiative is an important step
towards more effective, transparent and accountable public procurement,
supporting better public service delivery and Albania’s continued progress on its
European Union integration path.”
The project, which will run for the next six months, focuses on building the capacity
of OBP personnel and refining internal mechanisms to enhance the quality and
accessibility of public services. The ceremony concluded with both parties
reaffirming their dedication to fostering sustainable development and inclusive
growth through modernized public infrastructure and services.