The EBRD will finance the modernization and expansion of irrigation systems in Ukraine
15 July 2025, 19:57
International partners stand side by side with Ukraine, taking all necessary measures to support food security, according to the Committee on Agrarian and Land Policy.
As reported by the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Ministry of Agrarian Policy have signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the development of irrigation in Ukraine.
The Memorandum serves as a roadmap for attracting investment in the modernization and expansion of irrigation systems. In particular, it outlines the preparation and implementation of projects for the reconstruction of the Lower Dniester and Tatarbunary irrigation systems in Odesa region, with a total estimated value of nearly €36.4 million.
As of 2 July, the Recovery and Reform Support Team (RST) has begun its work at the Ministry of Agrarian Policy, supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
The EBRD is providing both technical and financial assistance aimed at improving the energy efficiency of pumping stations and reducing water losses within irrigation systems.
At the same time, the implementation of the Pro.UKR project has been launched, targeting support for agricultural producers in Odesa region. The relevant implementation agreement was signed with the participation of CIHEAM Bari (Italy), the Odesa Regional State Administration, and with financial support from the Government of Italy through AICS.
The project is focused on the development of small and medium-sized agricultural businesses — farmers will be able to form cooperatives and gain access to modern machinery, equipment, professional training, and advisory support.
It is noted that supporting agricultural cooperation is one of the key priorities of Ukraine’s agrarian policy. In the EU — and particularly in Italy — over 55% of the agricultural sector operates through cooperatives. In Ukraine, there are currently more than 2,300 agricultural cooperatives, and the government is committed to accelerating their development.
Under the signed agreement, funding will also be allocated for a project to modernize irrigation systems in Odesa region, which includes the reconstruction of the Tatarbunary and Kiliia irrigation networks, with a total budget of €6 million.