Connecting mine action operators with donors: a localization workshop held in Kyiv

"Matching mine action operators and donors": a workshop on localisation in humanitarian demining was held in Kyiv. The event brought together mine action operators and international donors to discuss how to increase the localisation of demining equipment production in Ukraine.

"The workshop had a practical goal — to connect Ukrainian manufacturers and operators with international donors who can finance the procurement of locally produced equipment. Localisation is key to the sustainability and self-sufficiency of the sector," said Ihor Bezkaravainyi, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine.

Participants discussed the main barriers to localisation — from funding challenges to certification requirements — and developed specific recommendations for overcoming them.

"Donors are interested in localisation because it provides additional value — supporting the Ukrainian economy while strengthening demining capacity. Ukrainian manufacturers are interested because it provides stable demand. Our task is to create conditions for this cooperation to flourish," noted one of the workshop facilitators.

The workshop featured presentations by Ukrainian manufacturers who showcased their products and capabilities, as well as by international organisations that discussed their procurement policies and how they can be adapted to support local production.

"We are shifting the paradigm from 'buying abroad' to 'producing in Ukraine'. This requires changes on both sides — manufacturers need to meet international quality standards, and donors need to adjust their procurement procedures," explained the Deputy Minister.

The workshop results will be compiled into a report with specific recommendations for government, donors, and manufacturers. Follow-up meetings are planned to track progress in implementing the recommendations.