Free Public Wi-Fi in 64 Municipalities Across North Macedonia
The WiFi4WB (WiFi for the Western Balkans) initiative was officially launched today in North Macedonia, marking the start of the deployment of free public Wi-Fi networks in 64 municipalities across the country. The ceremony took place at the Cultural Center “Beli Mugri” in Kochani, at one of the first installed networks, as part of a coordinated series of promotional events taking place throughout the Western Balkans.
The WiFi4WB initiative is part of the EU4Digital project, co-financed by the European Union and the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany, and implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. Inspired by the WiFi4EU programme, which has already provided free internet access to more than 7,000 communities across Europe, the initiative will enable citizens and visitors to access free Wi-Fi in public spaces such as squares, parks, libraries, schools, and cultural institutions throughout North Macedonia and the region.
As part of the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, the initiative contributes to strengthening digital connectivity and regional integration. The support from the EU and the Federal Republic of Germany provides participating municipalities with a comprehensive package covering equipment, installation, connectivity, and maintenance of Wi-Fi networks for a defined period, ensuring both immediate impact and long-term sustainability.
The telecommunications operator “Makedonski Telekom” was selected through a public tender to implement and maintain the Wi-Fi infrastructure and provide free internet services at selected public locations across North Macedonia.
At the opening of the event, the Mayor of Kochani, Vladko Grozdanov, emphasized the importance of digital connectivity for local communities, stressing that connectivity is a prerequisite for modern and inclusive local development. Thanking all stakeholders involved in implementing free public internet access in Kochani, he added that the project improves access to digital services, education, and public information while enabling citizens and visitors to stay easily connected.
The Minister of Digital Transformation, Stefan Andonovski, also addressed the audience, stating: “With the WiFi4WB initiative, we are providing free public internet access in more than 60 municipalities across the country. This means free internet in public spaces such as squares, parks, libraries, schools, and cultural institutions where citizens most need connectivity. This is not only about convenience. It is a tool for equal opportunities, easier access to digital services and information, support for local businesses, better visitor experiences, and most importantly, for reducing the digital divide and strengthening social inclusion.”
The Chargé d’Affaires a.i. at the Delegation of the European Union to North Macedonia, Ben Nupnau, welcomed the launch of WiFi4WB and its role within the broader EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, emphasizing that the European Union invests in practical solutions that make a real difference in people’s everyday lives. “With WiFi4WB, we are bringing free and reliable internet access to town squares, libraries, and public spaces across North Macedonia. This forms part of our broader commitment to strengthen connectivity, support local economies, and ensure communities across the region are fully included in Europe’s digital future.”
The Deputy Head of Mission of the Federal Republic of Germany in North Macedonia, Jan-Axel Voss, underlined the importance of equal access to digital services for all citizens, noting that free internet access in public spaces helps ensure that digital opportunities and information reach everyone, especially young people, entrepreneurs, and vulnerable groups.
A special moment of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between GIZ and the Municipality of Kochani, formalizing cooperation for the installation, operation, and long-term maintenance of the WiFi4WB network. On this occasion, Mr. David Oberhuber, GIZ Country Director for North Macedonia, highlighted the regional importance of the initiative and its sustainable implementation model.
The WiFi4WB initiative aims to improve access to digital services, education, and public information, support small businesses, enhance visitor experience, and strengthen local tourism. By providing free and reliable internet access in public spaces, the initiative also contributes to social inclusion and helps reduce the digital divide.