The project, aimed at increasing the level of cyber security and improving the quality of public services in the Mena municilpality, became possible thanks to the training program from U-LEAD.

On 24 September, the NGO “Good Initiatives of Menshchyna” presented the results of the “Digital Shield of Mena” project, carried out with the support of U-LEAD with Europe, in Mena municipality of Chernihiv Oblast. This initiative was made possible through the Hromada 4.0 training program, implemented by U-LEAD in 2022-2023, in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Transformation and the international organisation “SocialBoost”.

The “Digital Shield of Mena” project aims to enhance cybersecurity and improve public service delivery in the Mena municipality. Key achievements include the deployment of modern local network security tools, an upgrade of computer infrastructure, and cybersecurity training for 100 town council employees. Project partners included the Mena Town Council, the Chernihiv Regional Military Administration, and the Chernihiv Regional Development Agency.

The event featured prominent participants such as Ms Valentyna Kramarenko, Chief Specialist of the Regional Digitalisation Sector at the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, and other distinguished guests. After the project presentation, the participants engaged in a panel discussion titled “Cybersecurity in the Context of Digital Transformation: Responsibility and Interaction at All Levels”. The discussion focused on the prospects for developing cybersecurity measures in municipalities and exploring strategies to enhance digital resilience and cooperation across various governance levels.

“The digital transformation of regions is a key priority for the Ministry of Digital Transformation, as it addresses social, economic, and environmental challenges. We are committed to empowering municipalities to implement digital solutions independently. The successful experience of the Mena municipality can be replicated to ensure the sustainability of digital systems across Chernihiv Oblast,” pointed out Ms Valentyna Kramarenko.

The Mena Town Council and the NGO “Good Initiatives of Menshchyna” plan to share their experience with other municipalities in Chernihiv Oblast and across Ukraine.