News

HAPE project organized and facilitated the first-ever specialized training for members of the Water Border Control Unit of the Kosovo Police, Kosovo Customs and the Emergency Management Agency (EMA). To deliver this important capacity-building initiative, HAPE engaged a highly qualified French expert – a former chief of boat with 13 years of operational experience and a certified expert diver for over 12 years. The objective of the training was to enhance practical skills in waterborne operations and to ensure safe and coordinated navigation in inland waters (lakes). The four-day training was held at Batlava Lake, where a dedicated floating dock was installed on 7 July to support hands-on exercises. A total of 10 officers from the Kosovo Police, 4 officers from Kosovo Customs, and 2 representatives from EMA participated in this intensive course. The training covered a wide range of essential competencies, including safe navigation techniques, man overboard procedures, knot-tying techniques, mooring and securing vessels, and other critical safety protocols necessary for professional waterborne patrol operations. Special emphasis was placed on teamwork, situational awareness, and responding effectively in emergency scenarios. Participants demonstrated a high level of interest, professionalism, and motivation throughout the training, underscoring both the relevance and timeliness of this initiative. This activity reflects HAPE’s continued commitment to strengthening operational capacity and inter-agency cooperation among Kosovo’s border and emergency management institutions, in line with European standards for border security and public safety.