On 24 April 2026, the Swiss-Ukrainian project “Ukraine’s Cohesion and Regional Development” (UCORD), the Tairove Settlement Council (Odesa region) and the Regional Development Agency (RDA) of Odesa region signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the preparation of a project of regional significance aimed to modernise the water drainage system and improve environmental safety in Odesa region.

The signing of the Memorandum marks the establishment of a partnership aimed to develop modern engineering infrastructure in the water supply and sanitation sector through the refurbishment of key facilities in Tairove community.

‘We are excited to expand our partnership in Odesa region. For the UCORD Project, it is important to bring together the efforts of local authorities and key regional stakeholders to develop high-quality solutions in water supply, wastewater management, and waste management. The Odesa Regional Development Agency plays an important role in this process – it is our key partner in the region, responsible for preparing the project application, coordination, and professional support for the project’s subsequent implementation. We are committed to ensuring that such initiatives meet the highest quality standards, contribute to the sustainable development of communities and improve the living conditions and quality of life for residents,’ said Maryna Bryl, UCORD Project Manager.

The implementation of the project will ensure the stable and quality provision of services to residents and businesses, as well as minimise the negative impact on the environment, particularly on the Black Sea. The project will promote the adoption of modern approaches to the management of public utility systems and improve energy efficiency.

The next step will be the preparation of a project proposal by the Odesa Regional Development Agency. If the proposal successfully passes an independent evaluation and is approved, co-financing for the project’s implementation is expected to be provided.

‘For the Odesa Regional Development Agency, participation in this partnership is an important step in strengthening its capacity to prepare and implement comprehensive infrastructure projects. We are taking on the coordination of the process and the preparation of the project application to ensure it meets international standards and the donor’s requirements. We also see this as a practical case study that can be scaled up in other communities and regions,’ said Serhii Kononenko, Director of the Odesa Regional Development Agency.

As the project coordinator, the Odesa Regional Development Agency will facilitate cooperation between all stakeholders, support the project and liaise with the donor. The initiative also aims to develop the institutional capacity of the Odesa Regional Development Agency in preparing and implementing infrastructure projects that enhance the competitiveness of the regions.

‘We welcome the signing of this important Memorandum. Our priority is to improve people’s living conditions. The restoration of the sewage pumping station will resolve one of the community’s key issues, ensure quality wastewater management, and make the environment healthier. We are confident that the project will provide a boost to business development and improve the quality of life for our residents,’ said Tymur Khasaiev, Head of the Tairove Settlement Council.

UCORD Project is implemented with the support of Switzerland by NIRAS Sweden AB.