Italy allocates EUR 6 million for modernisation of irrigation systems in Odesa region

On 15 January, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine ratified two grant agreements with the Italian Republic, opening the way for Italian financing of strategically important projects for Odesa region and Ukraine as a whole. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry for Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine.

Irrigation as a pillar of agricultural resilience

One of the agreements is aimed at restoring infrastructure and supporting the agricultural sector. It provides EUR 6 million for the modernisation of irrigation systems in Odesa region, in particular the reconstruction of the Tatarbunary and Kiliya irrigation systems. The project includes upgrading pumping equipment, cleaning irrigation canals, and introducing automated management systems.

From a regional development perspective, this initiative is of systemic importance. It strengthens water security for agriculture under conditions of climate change, reduces water losses, and creates a basis for stabilising farmers’ incomes in the southern districts of Odesa region. In the longer term, it contributes to food security and enhances the export potential of the region.

Cultural heritage and institutional capacity

The second grant agreement concerns the restoration of six landmark cultural heritage sites that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage property Historic Centre of Odesa.

IDR commentary. 

This outcome became possible due to the consistent and systematic work of the Odesa City Council in cooperation with international partners, as well as the personal involvement of Gennadiy Trukhanov, Mayor of Odesa. Institutional continuity at the municipal level and the ability to build trust with international donors were decisive factors in Italy’s decision to support the preservation of Odesa’s cultural heritage.

The combination of investments in irrigation infrastructure and cultural heritage restoration demonstrates a comprehensive approach to the recovery and development of Odesa region. It links economic and food resilience with the preservation of cultural identity and tourism potential, illustrating how international assistance, when combined with effective local governance, can generate long-term structural effects.