Between the 2nd and 3th of May, OlamAid launched its first mission in Albania under the Natural Disasters in Southeast Europe initiative. Our team was on the ground in Himarë, a coastal region frequently impacted by wildfires, to conduct a comprehensive wildfire preparedness training and lead a community awareness campaign. This marked a significant step in building local resilience and fostering cross-sector collaboration.
This mission is part of OlamAid’s ongoing efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness in regions vulnerable to climate-related emergencies. Albania, with its mountainous terrain and increasingly hot summers, faces recurring wildfire threats—yet often lacks the critical infrastructure and training needed for effective response. In cooperation with ZWST and funded by Aktion Deutschland Hilft, the project aims to empower first responders and local communities through inclusive, hands-on learning and accessible public outreach.
In Himarë, the team delivered targeted wildfire preparedness training for firefighters, civil protection staff, forestry personnel, and local volunteers. A highlight of the training was the Psychological First Aid (PFA) session led by, which was the first exposure to PFA for all participants. The session focused on equipping responders with the tools to support individuals emotionally affected by crises—a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of emergency response.
Alongside the professional training, OlamAid conducted community engagement activities, including interactive workshops and awareness sessions for children and families. These sessions emphasized wildfire prevention, the environmental impact of fires, and the crucial role that emergency responders play in protecting both people and nature.
The response from the community was enthusiastic and collaborative, with many participants expressing a strong interest in continued training and partnership.
“I’ve worked in civil protection for years, but this was the first time we addressed the emotional side of emergencies,” shared one participant. “It’s something we’ve needed for a long time.”
The mission in Himarë marks an important first step in OlamAid’s engagement in Albania—a country where climate-related emergencies are increasing in frequency and impact. This initiative not only strengthened local capacity for wildfire response but also built trust and laid the groundwork for sustained cooperation.
Future activities are already being planned, with a focus on expanding training opportunities and deepening partnerships across southern Albania. By centering community participation and integrating psychosocial support, OlamAid continues to advance inclusive, forward-thinking approaches to disaster preparedness.
