On 24 April 2026, the Swiss-Ukrainian project “Ukraine`s Cohesion and Regional Development ”, UCORD, the Tairove Settlement Council of Odesa Region, and the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region (RDA) signed a cooperation agreement expressing their intention to jointly prepare a project of regional significance aimed at modernising the wastewater management system and enhancing environmental safety in Odesa Region.
The signing of the Memorandum marks the beginning of a partnership to develop modern water supply and wastewater infrastructure by upgrading key facilities in the Tairove community.
“We are pleased to see our partnership expanding in Odesa Region. For the UCORD project, it is important to bring together local authorities and key regional stakeholders to develop high-quality solutions in water supply, wastewater management and waste management. The Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region plays a particularly important role in this process as our key regional partner, responsible for preparing the project proposal, coordinating the process and providing professional support throughout the subsequent implementation of the project. We aim to ensure that such initiatives meet the highest quality standards, contribute to the sustainable development of communities, and improve living conditions and the quality of life for residents,” said Maryna Bryl, UCORD Project Leader.
The project’s implementation will help ensure stable and high-quality services for residents and businesses, while reducing negative impacts on the environment, particularly on the Black Sea marine environment. It will also support the introduction of modern approaches to municipal infrastructure management and improve energy efficiency.
The next step will be for the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region to prepare the project proposal. Subject to a successful independent evaluation and approval of the proposal, co-financing will be provided for the project’s implementation.
“For the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region, this partnership is an important step towards strengthening its capacity to prepare and implement complex infrastructure projects. We are taking responsibility for coordinating the process and preparing the project proposal to ensure its compliance with international standards and donor requirements. At the same time, we see this as a practical case that can be replicated in other communities and regions,” said Serhii Kononenko, Director of the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region.
As the project coordinator, the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region will facilitate cooperation among all stakeholders, provide ongoing project support, and coordinate communication with the donor. The initiative also aims to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Regional Development Agency of Odesa Region to prepare and implement infrastructure projects that enhance regional competitiveness.
“We are pleased to sign this important Memorandum. Improving people’s living conditions is our priority. The reconstruction of the wastewater pumping station will help address one of the community’s key challenges, ensure high-quality wastewater management, and improve the surrounding environment. We are confident that the project will also provide an impetus for local business development and enhance the comfort and well-being of residents,” said Tymur Khazayev, Head of the Tairove Settlement Council.
The UCORD project is implemented by NIRAS Sweden AB with the support of Switzerland.