IFAD (UN International Fund for Agricultural Development) launched the first full-scale project in Ukraine, “Business and Opportunities Development for Rural Territories,” the main goal of which is the creation of sustainable and competitive production chains for agricultural producers in rural communities.
Within the framework of the project, the allocation of an initial $15 million is planned to support small farmers. Specifically, three target groups in the agricultural sector: youth, women, veterans.
Climate resilience is also an important component of the project. The war exacerbated environmental risks – soil degradation, pollution and water scarcity, so part of the measures will be aimed at adaptation to climate change.
“Cooperation with IFAD is an investment in the sustainability and long-term recovery of rural territories, where 13.1 million Ukrainians live. Since 2022, we have already distributed €184 million in state support to over 202 thousand agricultural producers. The project will enhance this work and allow for the creation of inclusive value chains involving those who need support the most – youth, women, and veterans,” noted Denys Bashlyk, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment, and Agriculture of Ukraine.
He added that state programs are already demonstrating results. Farmers in frontline territories received 1.574 billion hryvnias in grant aid for the development of gardens and greenhouses. This accounts for over 3,500 farms that have created over 2 thousand permanent jobs. In addition, the World Bank ARISE project supported nearly 30 thousand farmers with $44.3 million.
