Ukraine is set to launch a program to provide ready-to-eat meals for schools in Ghana and other African nations, according to Maksym Subkh, Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Minister and Special Representative for the Middle East and Africa.
The initiative, led by Ukraine’s First Lady, aims to strengthen ties with African countries and tackle food security challenges. Speaking ahead of the upcoming Grain Summit this weekend, Mr. Subkh explained that the program is modeled after a similar initiative already active in Ukraine.
In addition to supplying meals, Ukraine plans to introduce technology to support local food production, fostering long-term self-reliance in African nations.
This announcement follows Ukraine’s earlier donation of 300,000 metric tonnes of grain to African countries amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. The Grain Summit will explore strategies to further enhance food security and boost agricultural capacity across the continent.
Despite its generosity, Ukraine continues to face immense challenges from the war. The conflict with Russia has caused total damages estimated at $1 trillion, with trade losses reaching $450 billion and the agricultural sector alone losing over $80 billion.
A critical issue is the contamination of farmland with landmines. Mr. Subkh revealed that approximately 40,000 square kilometers of fertile land have been rendered unsafe due to landmines, and clearing the land could take over a century if Ukraine were to handle it alone.
The upcoming summit provides a vital platform for Ukraine and its African partners to collaborate on addressing food security and advancing agricultural development despite the difficulties posed by the war.
