On 18-19 July 2024, the Third Land Reclamation Forum "Reforming and Restoring Land Reclamation" was held in Cherkasy region, dedicated to topical issues of water management and irrigation. The forum brought together more than 200 participants, including leading scientists, representatives of governmental and non-governmental organisations, farmers and entrepreneurs. The event was organised by USAID's Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD).

An important point of the event was the signing of grant agreements between water user organisations (WUOs) and international partners, which opens up new horizons for the development of irrigation systems in Ukraine.

"The situation is now such that we are already seeing quite high temperatures not only in the southern regions of Ukraine, but also in the eastern and central regions.

Under such conditions, irrigation is mandatory.

Of course, our farmers understand all aspects and invest in improving the current situation, and the state, in turn, appreciates and supports such initiatives," said Taras Vysotskyi, Acting Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, in his welcoming speech.

The forum participants saw examples of the application of reclamation technologies in Cherkasy region. In particular, how PERSHA is modernising the hydrotechnical reclamation system in Chyhyryn district with the help of a subgrant from the USAID AGRO Programme.

"It's nice to see farmers who have a lot of experience and can share it with their colleagues and continue the dialogue, because the reform is ongoing and we still have unresolved issues to which we will seek a common solution. All the reforms we are adopting are aimed at ensuring that the allocation of resources, transfer of powers and property complexes is as transparent and in accordance with the law as possible. We must act effectively and efficiently, for the benefit of Ukraine," said Ksenia Sydorkina, USAID AGRO Program Director.

"The Land Reclamation Forum is a real symbol of hope and confidence in the future of our agricultural sector. The signing of grant agreements shows that even in the most difficult times we can find resources and support for development. Cooperation and exchange of experience with international partners open up new opportunities for us. Odesa region is one of the leaders in implementing the reform, and together we can overcome any challenges and ensure the sustainable development of our country," Alla STOYANOVA shares her impressions.

The Land Reclamation Forum was an important step towards modernising irrigation systems and improving the efficiency of water management in Ukraine. The participants expressed confidence that joint efforts will lead to significant positive changes in the agricultural sector.

As a reminder, UAH 200 million has been allocated from the state budget this year for the programme to support land reclamation reform. In particular, farmers can receive compensation of up to 50% of the cost of reclamation and construction of reclamation systems.

*The amount of assistance is up to UAH 26,500 per 1 hectare of cultivated land*, where hydrotechnical reclamation is carried out, excluding the cost of sprinklers.

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