Strategy instead of chaos
The event brought together representatives of local government, officials and international partners — the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the German development bank KfW. The main goal of the meeting was to move away from "putting out fires" and shift to strategic planning.
Communities in the Kyiv region showed they are already ready for this transition. They are not merely asking for funds, but offering concrete solutions: from energy independence to innovative education.
Hostomel: focus on energy and education
The Hostomel community, which was among the first to take the enemy's blow, is demonstrating impressive recovery rates. At the forum the Hostomel SVA team presented projects that are already changing quality of life:
- Education of the future: A state-of-the-art STEM laboratory has opened at Lyceum No. 1. It is a space where children engage in robotics and science, effectively preparing themselves for the professions of the future.
- Energy independence: In the village of Horenka, construction of two solar power plants is planned. This is a strategic step that will ensure stable operation of critical infrastructure even during blackouts.
- Cultural space: A modern hub is being created based at the public library.
Makariv: power in the hands of the community
The Makariv community has taken the path of strengthening democracy and involving residents. As early as July, a Community Development Council was created here. This is not a formal body but a real instrument that brought motivated people together.
"The Council is already an established civic asset that will move into other projects and become an effective decision-making tool"
— Anatoliy, deputy town mayor of Makariv
Now Makariv’s active group is developing ideas for socio-economic recovery that will later be put forward for public consultations. This approach ensures that the projects implemented will truly be needed by people.
Support from partners
The "Viability+" project is being implemented with financial support from the Government of Germany through the KfW bank. This is further confirmation that European partners see Ukrainian communities not as victims, but as capable players ready to build a new, European Ukraine.
