The General Assembly of the Regional Football Association of Gjirokastër held its annual meeting today, where important discussions and decisions were made regarding the development of football in the region. The association covers the municipalities of Gjirokastër, Libohovë, Tepelenë, Memaliaj, Përmet, Këlcyrë, Dropull, Sarandë, Konispol, Finiq, and Delvinë, playing a key role in organizing and supporting sports activities in the area.
The meeting was attended by Executive Committee member Gjergji Petro and the AFA Vice President Arben Dervishaj. In his opening remarks, Vice President Dervishaj underlined the commitment to increasing attention toward football in this region. He highlighted ongoing and future investments, including the renovation of the “Luftëtari” stadium’s turf in Gjirokastër in 2024.
The investments will continue with the reconstruction of dressing rooms, installation of seats, and the planned construction of two training fields in collaboration with the Municipality of Gjirokastër.
“Over the past year, the AFA has funded and successfully completed the installation of a new turf at ‘Luftëtari’ stadium, improving infrastructure for local clubs and young talents in the area.
Furthermore, we have approved the construction of two new football fields in Gjirokastër, which will be completed in the coming months, representing another significant step in the development of football in this region,” stated Dervishaj.
Additionally, Dervishaj addressed concerns about population decline in the region and its impact on sports.
“The AFA is closely monitoring the depopulation phenomenon and the social factors affecting not only daily life but also football in this region. We understand that youth migration and economic challenges can make it harder for clubs and academies to function. Therefore, we aim to support initiatives that not only promote sports but also contribute to the wider community. I also want to emphasize that this Assembly should not be merely a formal meeting but a real opportunity to discuss the problems and challenges facing football in this region. Only through an open and honest dialogue can we identify solutions and make decisions that positively impact the future of football in Gjirokastër,” said Arben Dervishaj.
The annual meeting was attended by six association members, represented by seven delegates, who discussed the agenda points, including: the activity report of the association, approval of financial statements and approval of the budget for 2025. Additionally, the delegate representing the association at the AFA General Assembly was elected, with Sadik Sadikaj, the Chairman of the Regional Football Association of Gjirokastër, being appointed.
A particularly significant decision was the change of the emblem of the Regional Football Association of Gjirokastër, which was unanimously approved by the delegates.
