KYIV, 8 August 2023 – In a move to strengthen mine action initiatives in Ukraine, four Information Management (IM) Specialists, sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Government of Croatia, have officially begun their tenure at the State Emergency Service of Ukraine's (SESU) Mine Action Information Management Unit. This addition is a crucial milestone in the UNDP's unwavering support for SESU.

The IM Specialists are entrusted with pivotal tasks within SESU. Their responsibilities encompass:

• Overseeing the implementation and upkeep of the Information Management System for Mine Action (IMSMA).
• Data gathering, analysis, and the dissemination of information to key stakeholders.
• Strengthening the SESU team's capabilities through training and support on information management systems and tools.

UNDP Resident Representative Jaco Cilliers said the collaboration between UNDP and SESU takes a significant leap forward with this initiative. “The expertise these specialists bring to the table will boost SESU’s information management capacity, potentially reshaping the way we approach mine action in Ukraine,” he said. “Their role will also bridge the data-sharing gap among government agencies, NGOs, and international entities.”

SESU Deputy Head Roman Prymush said technical and informational support would help determine priorities in carrying out tasks related to demining activities. "Ukraine is one of the most heavily mined countries in the world, so we are open to cooperation,” he said. “The State Emergency Service of Ukraine is interested in refining its demining strategy. Incorporating new technologies will help us better understand the extent of mined areas. I also want to thank our partners who support Ukraine and strengthen the capacity of our experts."

Paul Heslop, Programme Manager for Mine Action at UNDP Ukraine, said this initiative demonstrates that UNDP’s collaboration with SESU goes far beyond addressing immediate challenges. “We're laying the foundation for enduring capabilities,” he said. “The onboarding of these specialists, coupled with donations of equipment, underscores our commitment to a long-term vision for Ukraine."

Background information: Ukraine is now one of the world’s most heavily mine-contaminated countries. It’s estimated that about one-third of the country has been exposed to war—an area four and a half times the size of Switzerland. UNDP has been working with Ukraine’s government for 30 years and has led the UN’s mine action programme since 2016. UNDP is a lead partner supporting the State Emergency Services of Ukraine (SESU), ensuring that a strengthening of operational and logistical backing through international funds and expertise translates to a more efficient response to the risks posed by explosive remnants of war. UNDP is currently procuring state-of-the-art computer equipment, which will soon be donated to the unit.

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, Head of Communications, UNDP in Ukraine; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org